What does it look like?

Plant: Biennial herb, 3 to 8 ft tall. Stems: Stout, hollow and purple spotted with distinct ridges and extensive branching.
Leaves: Bright green, opposite and finely divided into segments (fern-like leaflets). Crushed leaves have a strong, unpleasant odor.
Flowers: White and arranged in an umbrella-like shape (umbel). Blooms from late spring to early summer, during its second season of growth.

Where is it found?

Moist fields, meadows, along roadsides and scattered in riparian areas. It is common along water courses and drainages in the Santa Monica Mountains. Extensive infestations are found in the Rancho Sierra Vista and Big Sycamore Canyon areas.

Why worry?

Poison Hemlock grows rapidly, shading out native plants. All parts are poisonous to ingest, can cause death to wildlife and livestock.