Robinia pseudoacacia

Robinia pseudoacacia is toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The reported severity is severe. Also known as Black Locust.

dogs cats horses

Mild Moderate Severe Critical

This plant is known to be potentially deadly!

  • If you're comfortable with the risk, ensure this plant is out of reach of your animal.
  • If you suspect your animal has ingested portions of this plant, immediately consult your veterinarian.
  • If your animal is experiencing any of the associated symptoms, immediately contact your veterinarian's emergency number for further instructions.

If your animal ate this plant, call your veterinarian, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control on (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline on (855) 764-7661. Fees may apply.

Symptoms to watch for

Vomiting Depression Loss Of Appetite Weakness Difficulty Breathing Diarrhea Death Abdominal Pain Incoordination Laminitis Dilated Pupils

The color of each symptom follows the severity scale above.

About

Robinia pseudoacacia, commonly known as black locust, is a medium-sized hardwood deciduous tree, belonging to the tribe Robinieae of the legume family. Another common name is false acacia, a literal translation of the specific name.

How this plant poisons

The bark, leaves, and wood are toxic to both humans and livestock. Important constituents of the plant are the toxalbumin robin, which loses its toxicity when heated, and robinin, a nontoxic glucoside. Horses that consume the plant show signs of anorexia, depression, incontinence, colic, weakness, and cardiac arrhythmia. Symptoms usually occur about 1 hour following consumption, and immediate veterinary attention is required. The sawdust and shavings from Robinia lumber can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive persons.

Common Names

  • Black Locust

Also recorded as False Acacia, Locust, Locust Tree and Yellow Locust.

Facts

Family
Fabaceae
Duration
Perennial
Growth habit
Tree
In the wild
FR, DE, US, BE, CH, NL + more
Source
Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Elsewhere

Countries with the most wild observations, from GBIF data.