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Learn to identify and control poison hemlock
Poison hemlock (Conium maculatum), a poisonous weed to people and animals, can currently be found growing throughout Washington State. Ingestion of a small amount of this noxious weed can be fatal. In 2010, Washington state had its first human fatality from poison hemlock since 1999. It is imperative to be able to identify poison hemlock to prevent accidental ingestion. It can be mistaken for many edible and ornamental members of the carrot family such as parsley, parsnip, wild carrot, and anise that have similar-looking flowers, leaves, and seeds.
Poison hemlock is a biennial plant that can grow very tall, reaching heights of four to nine feet. It has smooth, hairless, hollow stems with very distinctive purple blotches. Leaves are fern-like--large and glossy green, finely divided and hairless. Like many members of the carrot family, poison hemlock produces flat-topped flower arrangements consisting of small, umbrella-shaped clusters of tiny, white flowers. Chemical compounds in poison hemlock give the entire plant – especially the leaves when crushed - an unpleasant odor that has been described as musky or resembling the smell of mouse urine. An aggressive invasive species, poison hemlock spreads by seed and rapidly colonizes streambanks, vacant lots, roadsides, pastures, and meadows, especially where the soil is moist, outcompeting native plants and desirable forage species.
Poison hemlock contains toxic alkaloids that are found in all plant parts but are most concentrated in unripe seeds. These poisonous compounds affect the nervous system. Death, when it occurs, is usually rapid and due to respiratory paralysis.
Due to its toxicity and invasiveness, poison hemlock is a listed Class B noxious weed in Washington. It is designated for control in many counties throughout the state, which means that landowners in these counties are required by law to control and prevent the spread of this noxious weed. However, because poison hemlock is so dangerous to have around, the state and county noxious weed control boards recommend controlling it wherever it grows. To prevent exposure to plant juices when controlling poison hemlock, wear gloves, protective clothing such as long sleeves and pants, and eye protection. Thoroughly wash your hands after poison hemlock removal.
Small patches of poison hemlock can be dug up, making sure to remove the taproot. Do not cut or mow the plants, as they will only resprout. Herbicides containing the chemical glyphosate are readily available and can be very effective. Be sure to follow the label carefully. The best time to spray poison hemlock is when the leaves are just a basal rosette, and before it forms flowers; however, herbicide control work can be done whenever the plant is actively growing, prior to seed development. The toxins will remain potent in dried plant material so bag and trash dead plants. Never put pulled poison hemlock in the compost or leave them where children or livestock might eat them. Follow-up efforts are necessary to control seedlings that may germinate at the site. Planting other desirable plants will provide competition and help prevent new poison hemlock plants from establishing.
Local county noxious weed control boards, WSU extension offices, and conservation districts can all provide assistance in identification and control of poison hemlock and other noxious and/or toxic weeds. Ingestion of poison hemlock should be taken seriously and persons should be taken to the emergency room. For further information about poison hemlock poisoning and symptoms, contact the Washington Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.