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flowers that are toxic for cattle or sheep? #893208

Asked February 26, 2025, 11:44 AM EST

i would like to plant some wildflowers in parts of our pasture, but I do not want to plant anything toxic! i hope you have a list somewhere. Thank you so much for your help!

Marion County Oregon

Expert Response

Hello, thanks for reaching out to ask extension. I am based in western Oregon hence will base on that but most of these apply everywhere. 

Resources that you might find relevant

Safe Wildflowers for Oregon Pastures

Oregon Sunshine (Eriophyllum lanatum) – Drought-tolerant and great for pollinators.
Common Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) – Non-toxic and beneficial for soil health.
Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) – Hardy, attracts bees and butterflies.
Showy Fleabane (Erigeron speciosus) – Low-maintenance and excellent for grazing areas.
Nodding Onion (Allium cernuum) – Edible for humans, safe for livestock.
Self-Heal (Prunella vulgaris) – Medicinal herb that grows well in pastures.
Douglas Aster (Symphyotrichum subspicatum) – Thrives in moist conditions, good for erosion control.
Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) – Pollinator-friendly and non-toxic to livestock.
California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica) – Low-water needs, great for Oregon’s dry summers.
Western Blue Flax (Linum lewisii) – Drought-tolerant and safe for livestock.

Wildflowers to AVOID in Oregon Pastures

Larkspur (Delphinium spp.) – Extremely toxic to cattle and sheep.
Lupine (Lupinus spp.) – Some species are toxic, especially to pregnant livestock.
Buttercup (Ranunculus spp.) – Causes mouth irritation and digestive distress.
Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) – Highly poisonous, affects the heart.
Nightshade (Solanum spp.) – Toxic to the nervous system.
Water Hemlock (Cicuta spp.) – One of the most toxic plants in North America.
Tansy Ragwort (Senecio jacobaea) – Causes fatal liver damage in livestock.

Planting Tips for Oregon Pastures

  • Choose Native Wildflowers – They require less maintenance and support local biodiversity.
  • Mix with Grasses – Plant alongside pasture-friendly grasses to maintain forage quality.
  • Avoid Wet Areas for Some Species – Certain wildflowers, like Eriophyllum lanatum, prefer well-drained soils.
  • Monitor for Toxic Weeds – Some invasive toxic plants (like Tansy Ragwort) can outcompete wildflowers if not managed.


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