Crack willow Toxic?

Updated 2026-03-06| 2 min read| 3,365 found this helpful

Salix fragilis L.

Avoid excess or chronic consumption of crack willow, as this can lead to elevated bleeding risk

No specific toxic effects for cats, dogs, or horses are reported in available reference data

This species can be easily confused with other related Salix (willow) species

FAQ

Is Crack willow toxic to Humans?

Increased risk of unusual bleeding or bruising, primarily with excess or sustained consumption (Low)

Is Crack willow toxic to Cats?

No confirmed specific toxicity symptoms reported in available data (Non-toxic)

Is Crack willow toxic to Dogs?

No confirmed specific toxicity symptoms reported in available data (Non-toxic)

Is Crack willow toxic to Horses?

No confirmed specific toxicity symptoms reported in available data (Non-toxic)

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Toxicity Details

Humans

Low

Increased risk of unusual bleeding or bruising, primarily with excess or sustained consumption

Cats

Non-toxic

No confirmed specific toxicity symptoms reported in available data

Dogs

Non-toxic

No confirmed specific toxicity symptoms reported in available data

Horses

Non-toxic

No confirmed specific toxicity symptoms reported in available data

Toxicity Snapshot

Toxic PartsAll plant parts carry bleeding risk only if consumed in excess or chronically; no plant part is acutely toxic when used appropriately

Exposure RoutePrimarily ingestion of plant material; no contact toxicity is documented

Toxic CompoundsSalicin (salicylate precursor)

First Aid & Prevention

First 30 Minutes

• Immediately remove remaining plant material from the reach of the exposed individual or animal
• Rinse the mouth out with clean water to remove residual plant matter
• Monitor for early signs of unusual bleeding (gum bleeding, nosebleeds, unexplained bruising) for 24 hours post-exposure

Contact Vet Immediately

• If unusual bleeding, lethargy, or unexpected bruising is observed after ingestion
• If a pet or horse has ingested a very large quantity of crack willow material
• If the exposed individual has pre-existing bleeding disorders or takes blood-thinning medication

Prevention

• Store harvested crack willow material out of reach of children and pets
• Avoid long-term use or excess consumption of crack willow products without medical guidance
• Confirm species identification before any intended use to avoid accidental consumption of more toxic related plants

Treatment & Prognosis

• Discontinue all exposure and consumption of crack willow immediately
• Provide supportive care to monitor and manage bleeding events if they occur
• Seek targeted medical or veterinary care based on observed symptoms and pre-existing health conditions

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Professional Toxicology

Scientific NameSalix fragilis L.

AliasesBrittle willow、Bruch-Weide (German)、Knack-Weide (German)、Saule fragile (French)、Salice fragile (Italian)

Toxicity Grade

HumansLow

CatsNon-toxic

DogsNon-toxic

HorsesNon-toxic

Target Organs

Circulatory systemGastrointestinal tract

Mechanism of Action

• Salicin in plant material is metabolized to salicylic acid, which inhibits platelet aggregation and increases bleeding risk with high or sustained exposure

Other Species Risk (CliniTox)

Information from CliniTox veterinary text.

Livestock (cattle, sheep): No confirmed toxicity reported; excess consumption may carry mild bleeding risk consistent with human exposure risks

Small companion mammals (rabbits, guinea pigs): No specific toxicity data available; avoid excess feeding to prevent potential adverse effects

Confusion Risk

The following plants look similar and may be confused:

Other willow species Salix spp.

Visually similar to other members of the Salix genus; the key distinguishing feature of Salix fragilis is its brittle twigs that snap with a sharp 'crack' sound when bent.

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Related Toxic Plants

White willow

Salix alba

Low toxicity, bleeding risk with excess or chronic use

Black willow

Salix nigra

Low toxicity, mild gastrointestinal irritation risk with excess consumption

Eastern cottonwood

Populus deltoides

Low toxicity, mild irritant effects if ingested in large amounts

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Data Sources

1. CliniTox (Universität Zürich)

This information is for reference only and does not constitute medical advice. If ingestion or poisoning is suspected, seek medical or veterinary attention immediately.

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