The Herbarium at the University of Georgia Poisonous Plants of Georgia
The Herbarium of the University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
Common Name:
Scientific Name:
Poison Hemlock Conium maculatum L.
Family:
 Apiaceae
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This plant may be poisonous to both humans and animals. Please refer to the "Symptoms" section below for information regarding susceptiblity of animal species to poisoning.
Description:
 Poison hemlock is a smooth, herbaceous biennial with branching, hollow, purple spotted stems extending to 2 m in height from a thick, white taproot. The leaves are several times pinnately compound and the leaflets are ovate to lanceolate. The inflorescences are composed of compound umbels which may be terminal or lateral. The involucral bracts are few and lanceolate with the bracteoles resembling bracts only smaller and few. The flower petals are white and sepals are absent. The fruits are schizocarps which are oval, 3-4mm long, and strongly ribbed.
Toxic Part: The entire plant is considered poisonous especially the taproot and seeds. Avoid this plant.
Toxin: Posion hemlock contains simple piperidine alkaloids. The predominant alkaloids are coniine, N-methylconiine, and g-coniceine.
Symptoms: Within an hour of ingestion there is usually irritation of the mouth and throat, increased though mild salivation, nausea, vomiting, pain in the abdomen, and diarrhea. Additionally there is an increase in heart rate, muscular weakness, and flaccid paralysis.
Treatment: Since there is no antidote for the toxin, coniine, only supportive treatment can be provided. Gastric lavage (stomach pumping) and activated charcoal are recommended and anticonvulsants administered when needed.
References: 24, 47, 53, 101, 105, 135
This site is NOT a substitute for the advice of medical physician. Plant poisonings can, in certain cases, result in SERIOUS HARM AND EVEN DEATH. Please contact a physician or your local poison control center if you suspect any plant poisoning. A link to the Georgia Poison Control Center can be found on the "References and Links" page of this site.