Sesbania punicea

Abstract

DISTRIBUTION: Originally from South America, it is an escaped exotic and a declared weed that has to be eradicated in South Africa. Found especially along watercourses and on disturbed soil.

BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION: General: A deciduous shrub or small tree. Leaves: Drooping, compound dark green leaves. Flowers: Red or orange pea-like flowers in dense sprays. Spring - early summer. Fruit: The seeds are carried in a characteristic long four-winged pod with a sharply pointed tip.

TOXIC PRINCIPLE: Sesbanimide (a cyclohexamide) and related compounds. Toxicity: • Sesbanimide: highly toxic • Seeds: c.0,5 to 1 g / kg (6 seeds for a pigeon) • Seeds must be broken in g.i.t. to be toxic. • Waterfowl much less susceptible, because the seeds are not broken. • Plant leaves and flowers much less toxic • Toxin cumulative.

SYSTEMS AFFECTED: Gastro-intestinal system.

CLINICAL SIGNS: An intoxication of birds, especially pigeons and chickens associated with diarrhoea when ingesting seeds of the plant. • Depression and weakness • Ruffled feathers, drooping wings • Vomition (pigeons) • Diarrhoea.

NECROPSY: Proventricular hyperaemia and haemorrhages.

TREATMENT: Prevention: Avoid seeds, for birds especially. Potentially toxic to all species. Regard all Sesbania spp with suspicion.