Welcome to the latest edition of the a-z of plants that have it in for horses. Today’s plant is one that many will know & love, it is beautiful, delicate & smells divine. Lily of the Valley may look innocent & smell sweet, but don’t get too close, it is deadly toxic – even to humans.
A Little About Lily of the Valley
Convallaria majalis is also called Our Ladies Tears, May Lily, Ladder-to-Heaven & Lily of the Valley. This is a perennial herb. Leaves are basal, nodding bell-shaped flowers are white, grow in a one-sided cluster & are highly fragrant. Fruit is a red berry.
How Dangerous Is It?
This is an ornamental plant which unpalatable & generally only a concern during drought conditions. Equines must consume large quantities for toxicity to occur.
All parts of this plant are toxic & can be fatal to equines.
What To Look For
You know your animal the best, so you should know when something is amiss. Lily of the Valley toxicity symptoms include gastrointestinal upset, irregular pulse, diarrhea, dilated pupils & colic.
Learn More
Be sure to check out the Lily of the Valley page to learn more about the plant & while you are at it why not check out more toxic plants?
*It should be noted that we’re not veterinarians. This information is written specifically for horses & should be used for reference purposes only. If you think your horse has eaten something toxic call your vet right away.