Water Hemlock
(Scientific Name: Cicuta
species)
[Common Name(s): Water Hemlock or Cowbane]
Description:
Stout perennials 2-6 feet tall growing from thick rootstalks which,
when cut lengthwise, reveal air cavities separated by cross
partitions. Yellowish drops of oil soon exude from the cut roots.
Alternate leaves have saw-toothed leaflets with veins terminating
at the notches between the teeth rather than at the points.
Small white flowers form spreading, flat-topped clusters.
Habitat:
Grows in swamps, marshes and along ditches from Alaska to
California. Widely distributed.
POISONOUS: (entire plant, roots most of all)
This is one of the most poisonous of all plants. Don't eat anything
with leaves or blossoms resembling those illustrated without
positive identification. The roots are the most poisonous part and
are responsible for frequent livestock losses.
