Native Plants

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Sunday - May 01, 2011
From: Chico, CA
Region: California
Topic: Shrubs
Title: Shrubs for hedge not toxic to horses and llamas in California
Answered by: Nan Hampton
QUESTION:
I have goats llamas and horses, and need a short hedge that is non-toxic to them. It will be along a section of no-climb fencing, but they would be able to get to it. I lost a foal this morning and could not stomach another loss. Thank you for your time.ANSWER:
I am very sorry about your foal. That is heartbreaking!
Here are some small shrubs that are NOT found on any of the toxic plant lists given below. They range from 3 to 8 feet for their maximum height and they all are native and can be found in Butte County. You need to read the GROWING CONDITIONS for each of the plants, however, to be sure their requirements are compatible with you site.
Baccharis pilularis (Coyotebrush)
Ceanothus velutinus (Snowbrush)
Chrysolepis sempervirens (Bush chinquapin) and here are photos
Dendromecon rigida (Tree poppy)
Eriogonum fasciculatum (Eastern mojave buckwheat)
Holodiscus discolor (Cream bush)
Rosa californica (California rose) and here are photos and more information.
Here are databases that you can use to check on toxicity of plants to horses and other animals:
ASPCA's Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List - Horses [Note: The first list is for plants toxic to horses and the second list is for plants non-toxic to horses.]
Horse Nutrition: Poisonous Plants from Ohio State University Extension Service
10 Most Poisonous Plants for Horses from Equisearch
Poisonous Plants that may be dangerous to llamas and other livestock
California Poison Control System
Pennsylvania's Poisonous Plants from the Universtiy of Pennsylvania
Cornell University Plants Poisonous to Livestock
Poisonous Plants of North Carolina
Canadian Poisonous Plants Information System
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June 09, 2009 - Mr. Smarty Pants:
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Shrub for barrier fence in Alexandria, Virginia
August 19, 2009 - Hi. we need plants to act as a barrier fence, 15 feet tall, partial shade. We are considering a holly or virginia magnolia. What can you suggest?
thank you,
Nikita
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Exotic plant/shrubs for Marietta, GA.
April 01, 2010 - Hi. I live in Marietta GA. and i am looking to add some curb appeal to my front lawn (around the border of the house). I would like evergreen plants and shrubs. I love the tropical/exotic look. do you...
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January 27, 2005 - I have several Texas Sage bushes that have started to get very woody and have growth only on the top. This seems to have led to a definite listing to one side.
Should I trim these to the ground or...
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