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spotted water hemlock
Scientific Name: Cicuta maculata var. angustifolia
Family: Apiaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Cicuta maculata: Spotted Water Hemlock
Cicuta maculata, a member of the carrot family (Apiaceae), is known by several common names, including spotted water hemlock, spotted parsley, and spotted cowbane. It is important to note that despite the name "water hemlock," this plant is not related to true hemlocks (Tsuga spp.), but is more closely related to poison hemlock (Conium maculatum).
Considerations for Pets
- All parts of Cicuta maculata are considered extremely poisonous.
Considerations for Children
- All parts of Cicuta maculata are considered extremely poisonous.
- The plant has tuberous roots that resemble small parsnips.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cicuta maculata L.
- Family: Apiaceae (Parsley/Carrot Family)
- Synonym: Cicuta douglasii
- French Name: Cicutaire macule
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to North America, occurring throughout Ontario and across most of Canada.
- Found in wet environments such as wet meadows, pastures, ditches, and along shorelines.
- Sometimes found in low-lying areas that are not necessarily wetlands.
Morphology and Growth Habits
- Cicuta maculata is a stout, glabrous (smooth), branching perennial herb.
- Typically grows to a height of 2 to 6 feet (0.6 to 2 meters).
- Stems are hollow and may be purple-striped or mottled.
- Arises from a tuberous base with fleshy or fleshy-tuberous roots.
- Features short rootstocks that contain air cavities.
- Flowers are small and white, growing in flat clusters up to 6 inches across.
Ecological Role
- Spotted water-hemlock is a native perennial herb.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- The flowers provide nectar to pollinators.