I love to spend time outdoors in the summer. Whether at the river, lake, or in the mountains, there are many wonderful places to explore in Utah. However, when you are outdoors it means you must be aware of potential threats. While we are often on the lookout for plants like Poison Ivy, there is another plant that grows in Utah that is quite deadly and is easily confused with others around the state — Hemlock. Also known as Poison Hemlock, this dangerous plant grows throughout Utah and for your safety and those around you, it’s important you know what this plant is and what it looks like.
Hemlock is a plant that may quickly capture your attention. It’s quite beautiful with a tall center stalk, fern-like leaves, and clusters of white flowers with five petals.
However, Hemock is actually an invasive weed that is native to Europe and Northern Africa. It is quite toxic during the warm and sunny months of the year and is often confused with other plants like common yarrow, elderflower, and wild carrot.
Hemlock thrives in areas that are wet such as near streams, rivers, ditches, etc. If you see it, you’ll want to stay away.
Every part of Poison Hemlock is dangerous. In fact, simply inhaling the plant’s fumes or touching the plant can poison humans. If multiple leaves on the plant are ingested, it can kill a human within two hours. The plant is extremely poisonous for animals as well.
If you come in contact with this plant, call Utah Poison Control at 800-222-1222. They can instruct you on your next course of action.
If you touch the plant, you should rinse your body immediately and apply a wet compress, calamine lotion, or hydrocortisone cream. If you begin to develop any type of rash or develop itching sensations or blisters, receive medical attention right away.
Have you seen Poison Hemlock anywhere in Utah? If so, where did you see it? Let us know in the comments!
While there are plants in Utah we wish would go away, there are also insects that always send a shiver down our spines. Here are 14 bugs found in Utah that we wish would pack their bags and leave.
If working or playing outdoors, it is essential to have the right gear to help protect your body. Fortunately, you can find many must-need items at places like REI.
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