Several species of pine trees are considered poisonous due to the presence of toxic compounds, including Ponderosa Pine, Lodgepole Pine, Monterey Pine, and Rocky Mountain Juniper. These trees can pose a risk to livestock, particularly cattle, by causing abortions, premature births, and other health issues. Additionally, some non-true pine trees, such as Norfolk Island Pine and Yew Pine, also contain toxic compounds that can be harmful to humans and domestic animals.
What Toxic Compounds Do Poisonous Pine Trees Contain?
Pine trees belonging to the genus Pinus can contain various toxic compounds that make them poisonous. The main toxic compounds found in these trees include:
- Isocupressic Acid: This compound is present in Ponderosa Pine, Lodgepole Pine, and Rocky Mountain Juniper. It can limit blood flow to the uterus, leading to abortions in gestating cows.
- Toxic Needles: The needles of Monterey Pine and Ponderosa Pine can cause premature births and miscarriages in cattle.
How Toxic Are Ponderosa Pine Needles?
Ponderosa pine needles are particularly toxic to cattle and other livestock. Consumption of these needles can have severe effects:
- Effects on Livestock: Cows that consume about 3 to 5 pounds of Ponderosa pine needles for several days may experience abortions, particularly in the final trimester of pregnancy.
- Effects on Humans: While not as severe as for livestock, pine needles can also cause miscarriage, low birth weight, and other toxic reactions in humans. However, the risk is generally lower for humans than for livestock.
Are Non-True Pine Trees Also Poisonous?
Yes, some plants commonly referred to as “pines” but not belonging to the Pinus genus can also contain toxic compounds:
- Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla): Not a true pine, but its needles can cause vomiting and depression in cats and dogs. It is believed to be safe for humans but may cause skin irritation in some individuals.
- Yew Pine (Podocarpus macrophyllus): Also not a true pine, its fleshy seeds are mildly toxic and can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in humans and domestic animals.
How Toxic Are Monterey Pine and Lodgepole Pine Needles?
Both Monterey pine and Lodgepole pine needles are toxic to cattle and other animals:
- Monterey Pine: Its needles can cause premature births and miscarriages in cattle, similar to Ponderosa pine.
- Lodgepole Pine: Contains isocupressic acid, posing a risk to livestock, particularly cattle, and can cause abortions and other health issues.
How Can the Risks of Pine Tree Toxicity Be Minimized?
To minimize the risks associated with pine tree toxicity, the following precautions and management strategies can be implemented:
- Livestock Management: Limit access to pine trees, especially during gestation. Provide alternative forages to reduce the likelihood of pine needle consumption.
- Human Consumption: Avoid consuming pine needles or products made from them, especially for pregnant women and individuals with certain health conditions.
Reference:
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Guide to Poisonous Plants – College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences – Colorado State University:
https://poisonousplants.cvmbs.colostate.edu/plant/68 -
Plant Toxicities, Defensive Chemical Compounds, and Other Feed Concerns:
https://extension.sdstate.edu/sites/default/files/2021-05/S-0013-21.pdf -
Which Pine Trees Are Poisonous? – Hunker:
https://www.hunker.com/13428592/which-pine-trees-are-poisonous