Common Name(s): Poison hemlock
Scientific Name: Conium maculatum
Plant Type: Herb
Communities: Wetland-Riparian
Size: 5-8 ft tall
Poison hemlock is native to Europe and Northern Africa, but has been introduced and spread to North America, Asia, and Australia. It is invasive in 12 states. It is generally in bloom from April to September; it has small white flowers that grow in clusters. The hollow stem is usually smooth and green with red or purple streaks and spots on the lower part of the stem. The leaves and roots emit an unpleasant smell when crushed.
Hemlock is poisonous to animals and humans if it is ingested; all parts of the plant are poisonous. If you're out hiking, be sure to avoid this and other poisonous plants by staying on the trail!
Photos:
By H. Zell - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=9581215
By Mick Talbot from Lincoln (U.K.), England - Wildflowers - Hemlock - Conium maculatum, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=20583724
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