If you love to spend time near Idaho’s rivers and streams, like I do, you must be prepared for potential threats. While many of us are aware of what dangerous plants like Poison Ivy look like, there is another that is easily confused with other plants but is extremely deadly. Hemlock, better known as Poison Hemlock, is growing all throughout Idaho and if you plan to spend some time outdoors this summer, it’s wise to know what this plant is and what it looks like.

Hemlock may look like a beautiful plant but it is actually an invasive weed that is toxic during the warm and sunny months of the year. This plant can grow up to 12 feet with a tall center stalk, green stems, and fern-like leaves. It also forms clusters of white flowers with five petals.

Poison Hemlock is often confused with several other plants like common yarrow, sweet fennel, elderflower, and even wild parsnip.

This plant is actually an invasive weed that is native to Europe and Northern Africa. It thrives in wet areas such as near ditches, streams, rivers, etc.

This poisonous plant has been found all over the state with large concentrations found in Treasure Valley and southern Idaho. In the panhandle, Latah, Nez Perce, and Kootenai Counties all have received multiple reports of this deadly plant.

If you see Poison Hemlock, it is best to stay far away. The entire plant is extremely dangerous. Humans can be poisoned by simply inhaling the plant’s fumes or through skin contact. If multiple leaves are ingested, the plant can kill a human within two hours. The plant is just as deadly to animals as well.

If you find yourself outdoors and come across these dangerous plants, call the Ada County Noxious Weed Control experts at 208-577-4646. They will be able to instruct you on your next steps of action.

If you touch the plants, you will want to rinse your body immediately with dishwashing soap and lots of water. If you touched the plant with your hands, make sure to thoroughly scrub underneath your nails.

You will also want to apply a wet compress, calamine lotion, or hydrocortisone cream to reduce itching and blistering, and then take an antihistamine. In severe cases, and if you develop any sort of itching or rash on your face, seek medical attention immediately.

Have you seen Poison Hemlock in Idaho? Let us know in the comments!

This isn’t the first time that plants and insects have come into Idaho uninvited. Mormon crickets have made an appearance in Idaho and they came in swarms.

If working or playing outdoors, it is essential to have the correct gear to help protect your body. For the entire family, you can find many must-need items at places like REI.