Poison Hemlock

Conium maculatum

 

 

Description: This biennial herb can grow up to 8 feet tall.  Poison hemlock has green stems with purple spots, is freely branched, and all parts are deadly poisonous.  This plant has a five part white flower with mostly terminal umbels. It blooms June-August.

 

Ecological Threat: All parts of this plant are poisonous with the highest concentration in the seed. The alkaloid toxin affects both humans and livestock. 

 

Biology & Spread: Poison hemlock often acts as a pioneer species that can quickly colonize disturbed sites. This trait means that it can displace natives during the early successional stages of a landscape.

 

Threat in Oklahoma: Poison hemlock can be mistaken for wild carrots or parsnips, poisoning the unsuspecting consumer.