Garden Q&A: Are Wild Cherry trees poisonous to livestock

A flowering branch of wild cherry tree (Prunus avium).

Are Wild Cherry trees poisonous to livestock (Cattle)?

Wild cherry trees (Prunus avium) can be poisonous to livestock like cattle and horses, particularly when leaves, bark or twigs are wilted after pruning or storm damage. These parts can release hydrogen cyanide as they break down, which is highly toxic if ingested.