Toxicity of Mimosa Tree
The mimosa tree, Albizia julibrissin, is a tree native to southern Asia that is now found in much of the U.S., both as a beautiful ornamental plant and as an undesired invasive species. Some parts of the plant are poisonous and of concern to livestock and pets and even humans.
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General Description
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The mimosa tree, also called the Persian silk tree and the pink siris, is part of the legume family. This tree should not be confused with the group of mimosa plants, which are scientifically classified in the genus Mimosa. Like all legumes, this tree forms pods, which act as protective shells to the rows of seeds formed within. Mimosa pods are very hard. The tree has long leaves that resemble the fronds of a fern.
Invasive Species
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Fast growing and less than 50 feet tall at maturity, the mimosa tree is considered an invasive species. First introduced from China in the 1700s as an ornamental, according to the University of Florida, the tree reproduces by seeds and shoots. The seed output is large, but it is the plant's ability to reproduce by both shoots and runners that makes it so prolific. The mimosa tree often invades disturbed areas found alongside highways.
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Highly Toxic Seeds
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Several seeds are produced in the tough, leathery pods than cover the tree in the fall. The seeds are very toxic, containing active neurotoxins, which can cause seizures and even death on ingestion, warns GardenGuides.com. Pets and livestock are particularly susceptible to these negative side effects.
Bark and Flowers
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Not every part of the tree is poisonous. In fact, the bark and flowers have been used in China for centuries as a mild medicine with calming effects, states IAmShaman.com.
Toxicity of Mimosa Wood
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Mimosa wood is reported to be toxic and able to cause nausea in someone working with the wood, states the Woodworker's Guide website. The degree of toxicity in the wood is not known.
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I was given a Mimosa plant by a Monk from Cambodia and was told that it was "completely edible" and to use it to eat and to "make soup with". It took me a while to figure out that eating the tender new leaves was making me short of breathe and causing me to have heart palpitations at any given time - not regularily and not ever for the same amount of time. I stopped eating the leaves (raw) and my heart would be normal. Eat the leaves and within 24-48 hrs. - same thing! I can find no writings pertaining to the toxicity of the leaves for humans - but I can attest as to what happened to me! I do NOT want ANYTHING to do with this plant!
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so many plants are poisionus to out animals. I am very very sorry.
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No, it wasn't Toby, it was Chopper, my pit bull who lived in Mobile with Fred.
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was it toby Im so sorry love you
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I'm so sorry for your loss Cyndi..and thank you for the article..gonna pass it on.
