Loco Weed

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Loco Weed

Image from jkirkhart35

Names

Astragalus and Oxytropis species, Crazy Weed

Description

2 types
Astragalus Annual that grows to 30 inches on dark purple stems, leaves are hairy and grow in leaflets. Flowers are purple and grow in clusters at the end of branches.

Astragalus

Loco Weed

Image from Jeantosti

Oxytropis Annual legume which grows to 12 inches with leaves that are covered in fine, white hairs. Flowers are white and grow in spikes on a leafless stalk.

Oxytropis

Loco Weed

Image from Matt Lavin

Concern Level

Only during drought conditions, unpalatable. However once animal starts eating loco weed they get addicted to it and will eat nothing else.

Toxic Parts

The whole plant is toxic both fresh and dried.

Loco Weed

Image from Magnus_Manske

Symptoms

Occur after constant ingestion, strange behavior, low sensory and motor nerve function, depression of the central nervous system, dull eyes, nervousness, can become violent, progressive lack of coordination, lack of appetite and thirst, fetal death and birth defects, excitability and confusion.

Danger

Contains Swainsonine which disrupts function of brain cells, called “locoism”. effects are irreversible.

Loco Weed

Image from Matt Lavin

More Information

USDA

*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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