The Orange County government recently alerted residents of discoveries of poison hemlock, a highly toxic plant that can be fatal if eaten, growing in the county.

An alert shared on Friday said the poison hemlock, which is the common name for Conium maculatum, has been identified along Highway 70 between Efland and Hillsborough, and Highway 70A between Churton Road and Highway 86 South. Additionally, the county government said there were four more residential areas it was discovered growing: in the vicinity of Lloyd Farm in Efland, Miller Road north of Hillsborough, Governor Burke Road in Hillsborough, and near Squires Road close to the county line.

The toxins in poison hemlock cause a variety of unpleasant effects for humans. Salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, muscular weakness, paralysis, nervousness, trembling, dilation of pupils, weak pulse, convulsions, coma, and even death are possible. The toxic alkaloids can even cause dermatitis if handled for an extended period of time and all parts of the plant are considered poisonous.

Orange County said poison hemlock can be spotted by its tiny, white flowers that bloom in umbrella-like clusters. The leaves are fern-like and look similar to carrot leaves. The local government warned that, in the right setting, the plant could growing perennially.

The plant can be controlled and killed, which Orange County indicated it is exploring. Herbicides like glyphosate, 2,4-D and dicamba can be effective and the plant should be burned once it’s killed to prevent it from spreading seeds in landfills or compost.

Mart Bumgarner with Orange County’s branch of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension is working to map locations of poison hemlock within the county, according to the county government. If community members have questions, they’re encouraged to email Bumgarner. If anyone sees poison hemlock growing, Orange County asks them to take a photo of the plant and text it to Bumgarner at (804) 318-7493, while including the location, your name and contact information.

 

Photo via Eric Coombs/Oregon Department of Agriculture.

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