Unmasking a Deadly Plant: How To Spot Water Hemlock

Water Hemlock is a very dangerous plant and it’s important to be able to identify it. The plant contains a toxic compound called cicutoxin which can cause seizures, convulsions, and even death. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings when out in nature and to be able to identify Water Hemlock.

The best way to identify Water Hemlock is to look for the purple splotch at the petiole of each leaf. This is the most distinguishing feature of the plant and it’s a good way to tell it apart from other plants. Additionally, the leaves are compound with multiple leaflets and these are larger at the base of the plant. The stem of Cicuta is a variation of either green with purple tinging or it could be solid purple reddish in color. Lastly, the flowers are very much like Poison Hemlock in that they are umbel shaped and very sparse with large gaps separating the flowers.

It’s important to be able to identify Water Hemlock in order to avoid any potential danger. If you come across this plant, be sure to stay away from it and make sure that any children or pets in your group are aware of the danger as well. If you think you may have come into contact with Water Hemlock, seek medical attention immediately. Knowing how to identify Water Hemlock can help keep you safe and healthy while out in nature.