Contents
Description
Cicuta Maculata, commonly known as spotted water hemlock, is a highly toxic plant belonging to the Apiaceae family. It is a perennial herbaceous plant that can grow up to 6 feet tall and is characterized by its hollow stem with purple spots, pinnately compound leaves, and small white flowers arranged in an umbrella-shaped inflorescence. All parts of the plant, including the roots, leaves, and stems, contain a toxic sap that can cause seizures, respiratory failure, and even death if ingested.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Cicuta |
Appearance
The spotted water hemlock has a striking appearance with its purple-spotted stem and pinnately compound leaves. The leaves are bright green and glossy, with serrated leaflets. The plant produces small white flowers arranged in an umbrella-shaped inflorescence, which can reach up to 6 inches in diameter. The flowers bloom from June to August and are followed by small fruits containing seeds.
Care Guide
Cicuta Maculata is a wild plant and should not be grown in gardens or homes due to its highly toxic nature. However, if you come across this plant in the wild, it is essential to exercise caution and avoid any contact with the plant.
Water
Since this plant cannot be grown as a houseplant, watering is not a concern.
Fertilization
As with watering, fertilizing is not a concern since this plant cannot be grown as a houseplant.
Soil
This plant grows in a variety of soils, including moist, rich soil, and wetlands.
Sunlight
The spotted water hemlock grows best in full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
This plant is native to North America and can be found in hardiness zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Since this plant is highly toxic, it is not typically affected by pests or diseases. However, animals may be poisoned if they ingest any part of the plant.
Habitat
Cicuta Maculata is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, marshes, and along stream banks. It is most commonly found in the eastern and central regions of North America.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cicuta Maculata poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are highly toxic and can cause seizures, respiratory failure, and even death if ingested.
Q: Can Cicuta Maculata be grown as a houseplant?
A: No, this plant is wild and should not be grown in gardens or homes due to its highly toxic nature.
Q: Where can Cicuta Maculata be found?
A: Cicuta Maculata is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, marshes, and along stream banks. It is most commonly found in the eastern and central regions of North America.
Q: What is the best way to avoid contact with Cicuta Maculata?
A: The best way to avoid contact with Cicuta Maculata is to stay away from wetlands, marshes, and stream banks where it grows.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Apiaceae family include:
- Carrot (Daucus carota)
- Celery (Apium graveolens)
- Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
- Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Cicuta maculata L. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CIMA3
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Cicuta maculata. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286765&isprofile=0&cv=5
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension. (2021). Spotted Water Hemlock. Retrieved from https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/atnews/2021/08/17/spotted-water-hemlock/
