Spotted water hemlock is a highly toxic plant species known scientifically as Cicuta maculata, belonging to the Apiaceae family. It is a perennial herbaceous flowering plant that grows in wetland areas, along riverbanks, streams, marshes, and occasionally in ditches throughout North America.
This plant is characterized by its erect stem that can reach heights of up to 2 meters, and its compound leaves with toothed leaflets. Its small white flowers form umbels, clustered together in a rounded shape at the top of the stem, typically appearing from late spring to early summer. Spotted water hemlock is often distinguished by distinct reddish-purple spots or streaks on the stem, hence its common name.
Despite its sometimes attractive appearance, spotted water hemlock possesses a highly poisonous sap that contains cicutoxin, a volatile compound toxic to humans and other mammals. Ingesting even a small amount of any part of this plant can lead to severe illness or even death. Symptoms of poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, convulsions, tremors, confusion, seizures, respiratory failure, and eventual paralysis.
Due to its high toxicity, it is critical to exercise great caution when encountering spotted water hemlock and to avoid consuming any part of the plant. In case of accidental ingestion, immediate medical attention should be sought. It is important to consult qualified field guides or experts to identify and distinguish spotted water hemlock from similar-looking, non-toxic plants, ensuring one's safety when interacting with vegetation in wetland habitats.
