Mountain Laurel
Laurels (Kalmia latifolia) are common branching shrubs or small trees with glossy, green, alternate lanceolate leaves. The characteristic white to pink flowers are produced in showy clusters. Laurels are common to the eastern and southern United States.
The principal toxins in laurels are present in all parts of the plant. Similar toxins are also present in azaleas (Rhododendron spp.), fetterbush (Leucothoe spp.), mountain pieris (Pieris spp.), and maleberry (Lyonia spp.). The principal effects of the toxin when these plants are ingested are gastrointestinal irritation and disruption of the heart's normal electrical activity.
Although all animals are susceptible to laurel and rhododendron poisoning, horses and donkeys are only occasionally poisoned. Affected animals may show excessive, green frothy salivation, colic, frequent defecation, depression, weakness, and incoordination. If a sufficient quantity of laurel has been eaten, an inability to stand, coma, and death occur. There is no specific treatment. Mineral oil and intravenous fluids may be helpful.
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