09/25/2026
❗ Three common toxic plants in Minnesota that we've seen this month (September 2026) ❗
🍂 This is prime season to see easily identifying features during fall clean-up. pulling the plant by the roots and discarding is ideal, but mowing early and often also controls the spread. 🍁
🌿 Hoary Alyssum 🌿
This invasive species tolerates poor soil conditions and is often found on roadsides, dirt lots, and pastures. The plant is toxic fresh or dried, so it is important to inspect hay. Seeds spread easily and will outcompete native species for space. Symptoms include lameness and leg edema, laminitis and fever. Horses generally survive with treatment.
🌳 Boxelder Tree 🌳
Part of the maple family, the seeds contain a toxin associated with seasonal pasture myopathy (appears similar to ‘tying up’ and other muscle disorders). While horses prefer more palatable grazing options, the trees can retain their seeds into winter when there are few other foraging options. Once horses show symptoms, it tends to be fatal.
🥀 Nightshade 🍅
This is a diverse group of plants, presenting as vines, shrubs, or trees. Distantly related to tomatoes and potatoes, the fruit is the most toxic part of the plant. Like hoary alyssum and boxelder trees, horses will generally avoid them unless mixed in forage. Signs of ingestion include colic and neurological signs, which are survivable with treatment.
For educational use only. Please contact your veterinarian if you have questions or concerns specific to your horse.
