A potentially deadly plant has now been confirmed in 29 counties across North Carolina including Mitchell and Yancey counties. Poison hemlock can grow several feet tall and features clusters of small white flowers and leaves that can resemble Queen Anne’s Lace, parsley or other harmless plants. One identifying feature is its smooth, hollow green stem marked with distinctive purple spots or blotches.
Experts warn that every part of poison hemlock is poisonous to people, pets and livestock. Ingesting the plant can cause serious poisoning and potentially death.
Poison hemlock is often found along roadsides, stream banks, fences and ditches. Because it can be mistaken for other plants, people are urged not to touch or handle plants they cannot positively identify.
If removal is necessary, protective clothing and gloves should be used, and the plant should never be burned, since its toxins can be released in smoke.
