[moprabbit]

Just wondered if plum branches and leaves were ok to give to sheep. I seem to have read somewhere that they were ok if fresh but poisonous if wilted. Wondered if this was true? Thanks

[macgro7]

If they eat a bit of the tree they 'll be fine but if ok cut them and feed wilted they produce cyanide and will poison the animals - my friends rabbits died of eating fallen plum leaves of the lawn.

[moprabbit]

Thanks for the reply. Think I'll burn them!

[Fleecewife]

Heavens!  I didn't know that     All the more reason to prevent the wee devils from breaking into the orchard!

[sheeponthebrain]

dont most leave produce either tannins or cyanidin as they break down?.  if my memory is right, thats why leaves change colour in autumn

[macgro7]

Tanins yes. Not sure if all leaves would contain cyanide???
I know however that some plants will contain much more tannins than others.
All plants from the Prunus genus are known to be at least risky to livestock (some in small and some in large quantities).
E.g  laurel, cherry, plums, peaches etc.

Apple and pear leaves and safe to eat.

Also goats can tolerate quite a lot more tannins than sheep or cows but even cows will eat leaves from oak or even walnut which contain a higher level of potentially harmful substances.