Tuesday, 01 June 2010 08:27

Poison Hemlock (Conium maculatum)
Poison hemlock is a member of the Parsnip family, introduced from Europe.  It is a biennial that reproduces solely from seed.  During the first year of growth a large rosette of leaves is produced; during the second year the plants bolt to produce 4 to 12 foot stems with white flowers that grow in small, erect clusters.  The stem is mottled with purple spots.  All parts of the plant are poisonous to humans as well as to wild and domestic animals.  The poisonous principle (the alkaloid coniine) causes paralysis, convulsions, and eventual death. Poison hemlock was used in ancient Greek executions, including that of the philosopher Socrates.

To learn more about managing thistles visit the Pitkin County Noxious Weed Management Plan posted online at http://www.aspenpitkin.com/weeds or contact Crystal Yates-White, Pitkin County Land Manager at 920-5214.

For additional information, contact Pitkin County Land Management at 920-5214 or the City of Aspen Parks Department at 429-2026.

 

< Prev		Next >