ORANGE COUNTY—The Orange County Soil and Water Conservation District wants to notify landowners and residents of the increasing prevalence of Poison Hemlock in the county. In Orange County, Poison Hemlock is a noxious weed of measurable concern due to its negative impact on the environment and its potential to become a health hazard.
Poison Hemlock is toxic to humans, sheep, cattle, swine, horses, and other domestic animals. All parts of the Poison Hemlock plant are toxic, and ingesting even small amounts of this plant, green or dry, such as in hay, can have serious effects. The toxin found in this plant impacts the nervous system causing trembling, salivation, lack of coordination, dilated pupils, weak pulse, respiratory paralysis, coma, and death. Additionally, non-fatal amounts can cause skeletal deformities.
Poison Hemlock has been spreading rapidly along roadsides, streams, field edges, and even residential properties in Orange County. It has white flowers that grow in small erect clusters. Each flower develops into a green, deeply ridged fruit that contains several seeds. After maturity, the fruit turns grayish brown. Poison Hemlock starts growing in the early spring when it forms rosettes. These young plants resemble large fern leaves and can be removed by hand or controlled with herbicide. Poison Hemlock is easiest to spot in May and June when plants are covered in clusters of white flowers, have obvious purple splotches on the stem, and can reach ten feet tall. However, once plants bloom, it is too late to control them effectively. Therefore, the Orange County Soil and Water Conservation District suggests landowners and farmers look to control overwintering Hemlock rosettes from February through April. Extra care should be taken when treating these plants, such as wearing the proper personal protective equipment.
For more information on the identification and treatment of Poison Hemlock, please contact the Orange County Soil & Water Conservation District at 573 SE Main St., Paoli. They can be reached via phone at 812-723-3311 ext. 3 or via email at orangeswcd@gmail.com
