Deadly Poison Hemlock Plant Blooms Again in Washington

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Poison hemlock, a deadly plant that gained notoriety after a tragic incident in 2010 where a woman in Tacoma mistakenly ate it, is expected to bloom again this spring in various counties across Washington state. The Washington State Noxious Weed Board advises residents to be cautious around the plant and to use protective gear if attempting to remove it, as even touching the plant can be deadly.

Why it matters

Poison hemlock is a highly toxic weed that can pose a serious threat to public health and safety, especially in areas where it grows abundantly. The 2010 incident in Tacoma highlighted the dangers of this plant, and officials are warning residents to be vigilant as it begins to bloom again.

The details

Poison hemlock, also known as Carrot Fern, Fool's Parsley, and Spotted Hemlock, can grow up to 12 feet tall and is found abundantly in Yakima, Whatcom, and Columbia counties in Washington. The plant is on the state's quarantine list, and it is illegal to sell or buy its seeds. Residents are advised to use plastic or gardening gloves to remove the plant, as even touching it can be deadly to humans and animals. The plant cannot be burned due to the toxic fumes it releases.

• Poison hemlock typically blooms in the late spring.
• The tall plants germinated last year, while the shorter ones are new growth.

What’s next

Residents who need help removing poison hemlock from their property can contact the Washington State Department of Agriculture's Plant Services Program.