Choke Cherry
Prunus virginiana · Rosaceae
How it looks
Choke Cherry is a deciduous shrub or small tree with glossy, serrated oval leaves and white flowers that bloom in spring on long, drooping clusters (4–6 in / 10–15 cm). In summer it bears small, round red-to-purple fruits in clusters with a strongly astringent taste. It grows 10–33 ft (3–10 m) tall.
Caution — cyanide in wilting leaves and branches
The stems, leaves, and seeds of Choke Cherry contain cyanide, and the shrub is at its most toxic while its leaves and branches wilt. If swallowed it can turn the mucous membranes brick red, dilate the pupils, and lead to difficulty breathing or shock.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
- Symptoms
- Brick red mucous membranes, Dilated pupils, Difficulty breathing, Shock
- Onset (typical course)
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
Guide for parents
Choke Cherry is a Prunus shrub planted in gardens and hedges. The parts ASPCA names are the stems, leaves, and seeds, and because the shrub stays low, those leaves and twigs sit right at a cat's eye level.
It is at its most toxic while wilting, so on the day you prune or tidy the hedge, don't leave the cut leaves and branches lying on the ground.
If you suspect your cat has eaten some, check the gums and the inside of the eyelids. Brick red colour, dilated pupils, or laboured breathing mean you should call your vet right away.
Details
- Scientific name
- Prunus virginiana
- Common name
- Choke Cherry
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Toxic parts
- Stems, Leaves, Seeds
- Compounds
- Cyanogenic glycosides
- Source
- ASPCA cats plant list
Related plants
Same plant family· Rosaceae
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