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The highly poisonous plant, Poison Hemlock, is spreading around Ohio at an alarming rate. This poisonous plant is one that flowers in bloom and falls under the umbrella of the carrot family. According to Richard Gardner, the Chief Botanist with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, the plant is non-native to Ohio but has had a bit of a presence in the state for the last 150+ years, with it is first recorded sighting dating back to the 1850s. Historically, the presence has been quite small and rare. However, over the last few decades, Poison Hemlock has become increasingly more and more common as it spreads through Ohio. The increased presence of the plant has culminated in an alarming amount of the plant, growing concern of botanists.

According to Gardner, Poison Hemlock was brought to Ohio due to its flowers.

Because of the way this hemlock looked, with its white flowers and unusual leafy structure, people began to use the plant in landscaping plots. The plant also grows to be quite tall, with an average height reaching up to approximately six to eight feet tall. The tallest the plant has been seen to grow is around 10 feet tall.

Generally, the plant thrives best for growth in moist and wet environments. However, it also needs sun. Because of this, hemlock can be found in most states in the U.S. except for Alaska, Florida, Hawaii, and Mississippi. Ohio provides perfect weather for Poison Hemlock to thrive.

Due to the appearance of its leaves, the plant is often confused for parsley and/or wild carrots.

If you see something that may be Poison Hemlock, carrots, or some other plant, always err on the side of caution before taking a bite. Poison Hemlock is highly poisonous and can be fatal for people and animals. The plant attacks the eater’s nervous system and heart after being ingested. Any part of it is toxic, so avoid eating any bit of the plant. The plant is safe to touch; however, if any part of it gets in you, (i.e., it is eaten, you inhale sap, or even if sap enters your eye) you could suffer the consequences. If you find Poison Hemlock on your property/land, it can be safely removed as long as you take proper safety precautions.