Safety note: Highly toxic — all parts contain coniine, which can cause paralysis and death. Do not ingest or handle with bare hands.
Poison Hemlock is a non-native biennial in the carrot family introduced from Europe, now widespread in disturbed areas, roadsides, and stream banks across North America. It is recognized by purple-spotted hollow stems and fine, fern-like leaves. The plant that killed Socrates in ancient Greece, it remains one of North America's most dangerous introduced plants.
Habitat
Roadsides, disturbed areas, stream banks, and waste places
Diet
Flowers support many generalist insects; otherwise has limited wildlife value
How common
Common
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