There’s A Deadly Plant Growing In North Carolina Roadsides That Looks Like A Harmless Weed

Poison hemlock, a biennial weed in the carrot family, is a deadly plant in North Carolina. It is mostly located in the Piedmont region but is sometimes scattered in mountain areas. You'll usually find it flowering from May through the summer months along pastures, roadsides, railroads, and river or stream banks if it grows. While poisoning rarely occurs, it is important to learn how to identify these poisonous plants in North Carolina.

The hemlocks are members of the carrot family.

This poisonous plant can look like many other plants.

It's important to know how to identify it among other vegetation.

Look closely at the design of the leaves.

And remember, the roots are the most poisonous parts of the plants.

Their white flower heads are a marked characteristic.

One concern is it can look very similar to Queen Anne’s Lace.

Poison hemlock can grow up to 10 feet tall and Queen Anne’s Lace doesn’t grow much taller than three feet. And poison hemlock stems are smooth, while Queen Anne’s Lace stems are covered with tiny hairs.

Look up close so you can identify the flowers.

While both have small white flowers that form umbrella-like structures, those from the poison hemlock are more rounded than Queen Anne’s Lace.

Check out the stem of the poison hemlock plant.

Do you see the red splotches? Queen Anne’s Lace has a solid green stem.

This map shows in which counties poison hemlock has been found.

While hiking is part of the summer experience, be aware that this deadly plant in North Carolina exists. Also, protect yourself by covering up with long sleeves, pants, and hiking boots. And if you're clothing has been exposed, be sure to wash it separately in hot water and soap. Discover more about this poisonous plant on the National Park Service's website.