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spotted water hemlock

Scientific Name: Cicuta maculata var. bolanderi

Family: Apiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Cicuta maculata (Spotted Water Hemlock)

Cicuta maculata, commonly known as spotted water hemlock, is a plant to be aware of, especially in certain environments. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know:

Considerations for Pets

  • All parts of Cicuta maculata are described as extremely poisonous.
  • It arises from a tuberous base bearing fleshy or fleshy-tuberous roots.
  • The plant is often found in wet meadows, pastures, ditches, and along shorelines.

Considerations for Children

  • All parts of Cicuta maculata are described as extremely poisonous.
  • The plant is often found in wet meadows, pastures, ditches, and along shorelines.
  • Its roots resemble small parsnips, which could be tempting to dig up.

Common Names

  • Spotted Water Hemlock
  • Spotted Parsley
  • Spotted Cowbane
  • Beaver Poison
  • Poison Parsnip

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cicuta maculata L.
  • Family: Apiaceae (Carrot or Parsley Family)
  • Synonym: Cicuta douglasii
  • French Name: Cicutaire macule

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to Ontario and found throughout most of Canada and the U.S.
  • Typically found in wet habitats such as:
    • Wet meadows
    • Pastures
    • Ditches
    • Shorelines
    • Marshes
    • Wet soils

Morphological Characteristics

  • Perennial herb, growing 2 to 7 feet tall (0.6 to 2 meters).
  • Stout plant arising from a tuberous base with fleshy roots.
  • Hollow stems that are purple-striped or mottled.
  • Flowers grow in a flat cluster up to 6 inches across.

Ecological Role

  • Sometimes found in low areas within gardens, although it's primarily a wetland species.

Interesting Interactions

  • The flowers provide nectar to insects.

Additional Information

  • Despite the name, water hemlock is not related to true hemlocks (Tsuga spp.) but is more closely related to poison hemlock (Conium maculatum).