There’s A Deadly Plant Growing In Montana Yards That Looks Like A Harmless Weed
By Michelle|Published August 09, 2023
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Michelle
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Michelle has lived in many places, but counts Maine as one of the best. In addition to the smell of ocean water in the air on rainy days in Portland, she loves puppies, photography, funny people, the Maine Red Claws, traveling, fresh tomatoes, Cambodia and filling out forms. For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
If you’re like me, gardening outside in the yard has become a great way to clear the head. A quintessential Montana breeze, the sounds of nature, and the ability to get dirty always make me feel like a kid. Assuming there are at least a few readers who share the same passion for being outside in the yard, there’s something you’ll want to keep in mind. You can now find poisonous hemlock in Montana. Its touch can be deadly, so you’ll certainly want to keep your distance. Here’s what you need to know:
Poison Hemlock is pretty, but looks are definitely deceiving in this case.
The plant is actually highly toxic. Indigenous to Europe and Northern Africa, it was brought to the states for its pretty, white flowers. It has since spread more widely than ever planned.
It thrives most in bright sun as well as in moist soil along streams, and in plains, valleys, and slopes. It was first spotted primarily in the eastern part of Montana but has spread west over the last 20 years.
The plant is fairly easy to spot if you know what you're looking for. After the seed stage, which is pictured here, the flower has five petals, circled by umbrella-shaped clusters.
You can typically spot poison hemlock in the late spring and summer. In addition to growing up to nine feet, it can be identified it by its unpleasant odor.
One of the most difficult things about the plant is that it looks similar to other weeds. But, it's important not to touch it. Ingesting it can be fatal, but touching it can also have dangerous effects.
Some of the symptoms of hemlock poisoning include swelling of the face, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Touching the plant can lead to any of these and ingesting it can lead to death in a human within just a few hours. Inhaling the plant's fumes is also toxic.
If you find hemlock in Montana, be sure to put on protective clothing and dig up the entire plant. It's best to dispose of it with the rest of your yard waste. Remember that burning it or mowing it can mean dangerous exposure to your eyes, skin, and lungs.
Have you seen poisonous hemlock in Montana? If you have, we’d love to hear about your experience. Let us know in the comments. This is certainly something to avoid, but it’s not the only thing to beware of here. There are some creepy bugs in Montana that will send shivers down your spine.
Gardening means lots of time outside. It’s important to be prepared. Check out all of the outdoor gear at REI.
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