Wild Parsnip: A Beautiful but Dangerous Invasive You Should Avoid
If you’ve ever encountered wild parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) along roadsides or in fields, you might have been struck by its impressive height and cheerful yellow flower clusters. But before you consider adding this plant to your garden, there’s something crucial you need to know: this European import is not only invasive across much of North America, but it can also cause severe chemical burns to your skin.
What is Wild Parsnip?
Wild parsnip is a non-native biennial or perennial forb that originally hails from Europe and Asia. This tall plant can reach heights of 2-5 feet and produces distinctive umbrella-shaped clusters of small yellow flowers called umbels. While it may look harmless (and even attractive), wild parsnip contains dangerous phototoxic compounds that can cause serious skin injuries when combined with sunlight exposure.
Why You Shouldn’t Plant Wild Parsnip
There are several compelling reasons to avoid planting wild parsnip in your garden:
- Invasive status: Wild parsnip is classified as invasive in Michigan and restricted in Wisconsin, with concerning populations spreading across North America
- Safety hazard: The plant’s sap contains chemicals that cause severe burns and blistering when skin is exposed to sunlight after contact
- Aggressive spreader: It readily self-seeds and can quickly dominate native plant communities
- Difficult to control: Once established, wild parsnip can be challenging to eradicate
Where Wild Parsnip Grows
Unfortunately, wild parsnip has established itself across most of North America, including Alaska, all Canadian provinces, and virtually every U.S. state. It thrives in disturbed soils, roadsides, abandoned fields, and prairie edges, often outcompeting native plants for space and resources.
Identifying Wild Parsnip
Learning to identify wild parsnip is important for your safety and to help prevent its spread:
- Height: Typically 2-5 feet tall
- Flowers: Flat-topped clusters of small yellow flowers in umbrella-like formations
- Leaves: Large, compound leaves with serrated leaflets
- Stem: Thick, grooved, and hollow
- Growth habit: Forms rosettes in the first year, flowers in the second
Safety Precautions
If you encounter wild parsnip on your property, take these safety measures seriously:
- Never handle the plant with bare skin
- Wear long sleeves, long pants, and gloves when working near it
- If skin contact occurs, wash immediately with soap and water and avoid sun exposure
- Seek medical attention if you develop burns or blistering
Better Native Alternatives
Instead of risking wild parsnip, consider these beautiful native alternatives that provide similar aesthetic appeal without the dangers:
- Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa): Fragrant purple flowers beloved by pollinators
- Golden alexanders (Zizia aurea): Yellow umbel flowers that support native insects
- Culver’s root (Veronicastrum virginicum): Tall spikes of white flowers
- Wild ginger (Asarum canadense): Excellent groundcover for shaded areas
Removal and Control
If wild parsnip is already established on your property, removal requires caution and persistence. The best approach is to cut plants before they flower and set seed, always wearing protective equipment. For large infestations, consider consulting with local extension services or invasive species management professionals.
The Bottom Line
While wild parsnip might catch your eye with its bright yellow blooms, it’s simply not worth the risk to your health or local ecosystems. This invasive species poses real dangers and contributes nothing positive that can’t be better provided by native alternatives. Focus your gardening efforts on beautiful, safe native plants that will support local wildlife and create a healthier landscape for everyone to enjoy.
Remember: when it comes to wild parsnip, the best gardening advice is simply to stay away and choose native plants instead.
