Is Valentine Bush safe for Desert Tortoise?

[gretgonz]

Does anyone know if Valentine Bush (Eremophila maculata ‘Valentine’) is safe for Desert Tortoises? We have one in our yard which our Speedy ignored all of last year and most of this season since she woke up, but this year it’s flowering much better and today I caught her nibbling on a couple of blooms which had fallen. I can’t seem to find anything on this particular plant on any of the safe lists or tortoise tables. Thanks!

 

[Alex and the Redfoot]

Hi! I've found that this plant is toxic because of cyanide precursors. Tortoises seem to have some adaptations to counteract cyanide released from plants. However, I'm not sure to what extent and if it's common for all species.

I would not feed it on purpose. Maybe some bird netting will keep leaves and flowers from falling on the ground.