Plant Description:

  1. Ornamental, evergreen shrub similar in appearance to conifers
  2. Dark green leaflets (needles) 2-3 centimeters long and 2-3 millimeters wide with prominent midrib
  3. Fruit is single stony seed surrounded by bright scarlet thick, fleshy fruit
  4. Needles and Seed- highly toxic; green or dry

Toxic Principle:

  1. Alkaloid known as Taxine
  2. Major effect on the heart.

Disease:

  1. Most often seen in cattle, goats, sheep and horses.
  2. Rapid or sudden death if fatal dose eaten.
  3. Subacute toxicity:

  4.       a) slowed heart rate; labored respiration

  5.       b) trembling; diarrhea

Treatment:

  1. Do not feed to livestock or allow access.
  2. Evacuate rumen or stomach
  3. Symptomatic treatment