Yes, the leaves of cherry trees are toxic to humans, as well as to many animals. This toxicity is a natural defense mechanism present in all members of the Prunus genus, which includes common fruit-bearing cherries, ornamental cherries, plums, peaches, and apricots. The danger is not constant, but becomes active when the plant material is damaged, making it a serious concern for accidental ingestion. This information focuses on the risk posed by the leaves, twigs, and seeds of these widespread Prunus species.
How Cherry Tree Leaves Become Toxic
Cherry tree leaves contain compounds known as cyanogenic glycosides, such as amygdalin. These compounds are stored safely within the plant cells, physically separated from the enzymes needed to break them down. As long as the leaf is fresh and intact, the glycosides remain harmless and stable.
The danger begins when the leaf structure is compromised, such as by chewing, crushing, wilting, or drying. Damage causes the glycosides to mix with the enzymes, triggering a chemical reaction called hydrolysis. This reaction rapidly converts the stored compounds into sugar molecules and a potent poison: hydrogen cyanide (HCN).
Wilted leaves often pose a higher risk because the plant tissue is stressed, which can increase the concentration of the toxin. The production of hydrogen cyanide is essentially instantaneous once the plant’s cellular compartments are ruptured. Consumption of even a small amount of damaged cherry leaves can lead to cyanide poisoning.
Recognizing Symptoms of Cyanide Exposure
Ingestion of hydrogen cyanide disrupts the body’s ability to use oxygen at the cellular level, effectively causing internal suffocation. The onset of symptoms can be rapid, often appearing within minutes of consuming a toxic amount of damaged cherry material. The severity of the reaction depends heavily on the amount ingested and the individual’s body weight.
Mild exposure often presents with generalized symptoms that can be mistaken for other illnesses, including headache, dizziness, and nausea. A person may also experience confusion, a rapid heart rate, and an increased rate of breathing.
More severe ingestion leads to a rapid progression of neurological and cardiovascular symptoms. These can include shortness of breath, seizures, loss of consciousness, and low blood pressure. Without immediate medical intervention, severe cyanide poisoning can result in respiratory failure and cardiac arrest.
Safety Measures and First Aid Guidance
Limiting access to damaged cherry tree material is essential, especially for children and pets. When pruning, ensure all branches and leaves are promptly and safely disposed of, rather than left to wilt on the ground where the toxin concentration increases. The mature, fleshy part of the cherry fruit is safe to eat, but the pits or seeds inside contain the same cyanogenic compounds as the leaves.
Never crush or chew cherry pits, and ensure children do not play with them. The hard outer shell of the pit normally prevents the release of the toxin, but cracking or grinding it releases the poison. Young leaves and new growth also tend to have a higher concentration of the toxic compounds than older foliage.
If you suspect that a person has ingested damaged cherry leaves or chewed pits, immediately call the national toll-free Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222, which connects you to your local poison control center. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling for professional advice.
If the person is unconscious, having a seizure, or having difficulty breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless specifically instructed to do so by a medical professional or Poison Control. Be prepared to provide details about the person’s age, weight, and the type and amount of plant material ingested.