Crown of Thorns

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Crown of Thorns

Image from bazylek100

Name

Euphorbia milii

Description

A small evergreen shrub with thorns on purple / brown stems and branches, can grow up to 3 feet. Leaves are oval shaped and few in number. Flowers grow in clusters and are bright red.

Crown of Thorns

Concern Level

Only during drought conditions, unpalatable with big thorns.

Toxic Parts

The whole plant is toxic. The thorns can cause mechanical damage to mouth and throat area.

Crown of Thorns

Image from Martin Heigan

Symptoms

Irritation, blistering and swelling of mouth and gastrointestinal upset, hemorrhage and diarrhea, excess drooling, weakness.

Danger

Contains phorbol esters which can alter enzyme and protein functions. Can promote tumors and cytoskeletal damage. Death is rare.

Crown of Thorns

Image from Arthur Chapman

More Information

Veterinary Medicine Library

*It should be noted that we are not veterinarians. This information is written specifically for horses and should be used for reference purposes only. If you think your horse has eaten something toxic call your vet right away.

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