High Risk
Description:
Ragwort is a perennial, sometimes biennial, plant that can grow up to 1m tall. It bears dark geen divided and toothed leaves and has large heads of daiy-like yellow flowers. It forms flat lying rosettes in the first year and flowers in the next. It has been reported that seeds can be dormant in the soil for up to 20 years.
Digestive disturbance, depression, frequent yawning, lack of co-ordination, photosensitisation, abdominal pain and diarrhoea, restlessness, inco-ordination and paralysis. Symptoms can appear immediately the plant is ingested but can take several weeks to develop as the posion builds up in the animal.
Notes:
Ragwort does not lose its toxicity after drying and storage so
it can cause problems if included in baled hay. It is a controlled
weed under the 1959 Weed Act. In small amounts plant should be
sought out, uprooted and burnt. It is advisable to wear gloves
when pulling Ragwort.