Poison Hemlock, winter fern, California fern, spotted hemlock, poison parsley (Conium maculatum)
Scientific Name: Conium maculatum
Common Name: Poison Hemlock, winter fern, California fern, spotted hemlock, poison parsley
Type: Native
Toxicity: Poisonous
Berries/Fruits: Small capsule containing grayish-brown seeds
Flowers: Individual flowers are very tiny, and are borne in umbrella shaped clusters at the ends of the branches
Description: Grows along streamside and ditch banks at all elevations, tolerates poorly drained soils. Can be found throughout the United States. Grows 4-10 feet tall. Hollow, branched, spotted stems with purple splotches. Leaves are fern-like. Single white taproot that resembles a carrot. Poisonous parts: all parts.