Laburnum (golden chain) contains cytisine, especially concentrated in the pea-like seeds.
All parts of this popular ornamental are toxic; the seeds and seed pods are the most dangerous.
Cytisine binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, producing effects similar to nicotine poisoning — initial stimulation followed by paralysis. High doses can cause respiratory failure.
Sources
Children and dogs are particularly at risk because the seed pods look like edible pea pods. As few as 15–20 seeds can cause severe poisoning in a small dog.
Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal poison hotline immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a vet.
callFind Emergency Vet