Spotted Water Hemlock: The Deadly Native You Should Never Plant
When it comes to native plants, we usually encourage gardeners to embrace species that naturally belong in their region. However, there’s one notable exception that proves the rule: spotted water hemlock (Cicuta maculata var. angustifolia). This native North American plant might check all the boxes for being local, but it’s also earned the grim distinction of being one of the most poisonous plants on the continent.
What Is Spotted Water Hemlock?
Spotted water hemlock is a perennial forb (a non-woody flowering plant) that’s native across an impressively wide range – from Alaska and Canada down through the lower 48 states. You’ll find it naturally occurring in wetlands throughout Alberta, British Columbia, Alaska, Manitoba, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Ontario, Colorado, Quebec, Saskatchewan, Yukon, Northwest Territories, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Also known by its synonym Cicuta occidentalis, this plant is perfectly adapted to wet environments like marshes, streambanks, and soggy meadows. As a native species, it plays a role in wetland ecosystems and can attract pollinators with its white, umbrella-shaped flower clusters.
Why You Should Never Plant Spotted Water Hemlock
Here’s where we need to have a serious conversation about plant safety. Despite being native, spotted water hemlock contains cicutoxin, a compound so deadly that even small amounts can be fatal to humans and animals. We’re talking about a plant that has earned its reputation as one of North America’s most dangerous flora.
Every part of the plant is toxic, but the roots are particularly concentrated with poison. Unfortunately, the roots can be mistaken for wild parsnips or other edible plants, leading to tragic cases of accidental poisoning. Livestock deaths from grazing on water hemlock are also documented concerns.
How to Identify This Dangerous Native
Since spotted water hemlock can be found naturally in wetland areas, it’s crucial to know how to identify it:
- Height: Can grow 3-8 feet tall
- Leaves: Compound leaves with toothed leaflets
- Flowers: Small white flowers arranged in umbrella-like clusters (umbels)
- Habitat: Always found in wet areas – marshes, stream edges, wet meadows
- Stem: Often has purple streaking or spots (hence spotted water hemlock)
What to Do If You Find It
If you discover spotted water hemlock on your property, especially near areas where children or pets play, consider having it professionally removed. Never attempt to handle or remove it yourself without proper protective equipment and knowledge. Contact your local extension office or a professional who understands how to safely deal with toxic plants.
Native Alternatives for Wet Areas
If you’re looking to plant natives in wet areas of your landscape, there are many safer options that provide similar ecological benefits without the danger:
- Blue flag iris (Iris versicolor)
- Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
- Swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)
- Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)
- New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)
The Bottom Line
While we’re passionate advocates for native plants, spotted water hemlock serves as an important reminder that native doesn’t always mean garden-appropriate. This plant belongs in wild wetland ecosystems where it can fulfill its ecological role away from human activity – not in our gardens, yards, or anywhere near our families and pets.
Sometimes the best way to appreciate a native plant is from a respectful distance, armed with knowledge about its identification and proper caution about its dangers. When it comes to creating wildlife-friendly, native plant gardens, there are countless safer species that can provide beauty, ecological benefits, and peace of mind.
