Be aware of hemlock plants

It is imperative to be able to identify poison hemlock to prevent accidental ingestion. Already this year, four cases of human ingestion of or exposure to poison hemlock have resulted in emergencies, with one death of an adult recently.

Poison hemlock can be mistaken for many edible and ornamental members of the carrot family such as parsley, sweet cicely, parsnip, wild carrot and anise. They all have similar-looking flowers, leaves and seeds.

It is imperative to be able to identify poison hemlock to prevent accidental ingestion.

The biennial plant can grow very tall, reaching heights of 8 feet. The hollow stem is smooth and hairless and has very distinctive purple blotches all over it.

It has large, glossy green, finely divided, fern-like leaves that are smooth and hairless.

Like many members of the carrot family, poison hemlock produces flattopped flower arrangements consisting of small clusters of tiny, white, five-pedaled flowers.

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 aggressively invasive species, poison hemlock rapidly colonizes stream banks, vacant lots, roadsides, pastures and meadows, out-competing native plants and desirable forage species especially where the soil is moist.

Poison hemlock contains toxic alkaloids, which affect the nervous system. Initial symptoms may include a burning sensation in the mouth, nausea, vomiting, confusion, respiratory depression and muscle paralysis.

Death, when it occurs, is usually rapid and due to respiratory paralysis.

Due to its toxicity and invasiveness, poison hemlock is listed as a Class B noxious weed in Washington. It is designated for control throughout the state, which means that landowners in these counties are required by law to prevent its spread.

When removing poison hemlock, it is advisable to wear gloves to prevent accidental exposure to plant juices. 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 re-sprout.

Herbicides containing the chemical glyphosate 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. Remember that the toxins will remain potent in dried plant material. Never put pulled plants in the compost or leave them where children or livestock might eat them.

Follow-up efforts will be necessary to control seedlings that may germinate at the site. Plant grasses or desirable plants to 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 – go straight to the emergency room. For information, contact the Washington Poison Center at 800-222-1222.