Poison hemlock growing in Washington

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 g...