Is a Mimosa Tree Harmful to Horses?

There are some horses who would strip an entire pasture bare of foliage if given the chance. It is important to know which plants are dangerous for them to eat, even if your horse is not an unstoppable eating machine.

  1. Identification

    • Albizia julibrissin is the scientific name of the mimosa tree. Mimosa trees are also known as silk trees or Persian silk trees. Mimosa trees grow quickly with multiple trunks, 20 inch long leaves, and bright silky pink flowers in the spring and summer.

    Significance

    • Mimosa tree seeds contain neurotoxins that are harmful to horses. The suspected toxin is known as ginkgotoxin.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms of mimosa toxicity due to ingestion include stomach upset, ataxia, lethargy, coma, seizure and death.

    Prevention

    • Avoid purchasing mimosa trees as ornamental foliage. Learn how to identify mimosa trees, or use a reference book to identify the tree in the wild.

    Expert Insight

    • If you suspect your horse is suffering from ingesting of mimosa seeds, speak to a veterinary medical professional immediately. The veterinarian can proceed with an appropriate course of treatment, including the administration of B vitamins as well as other possible steps.