Spending time outdoors is my favorite way to spend a day. Whether it is time at the lake, on a trail, or even in a campground, there’s nothing like fresh air and sunshine. However, if you plan to spend a lot of time outside, it’s important that you keep yourself safe. Poison Hemlock is a plant growing in the Pine Tree State that is quite dangerous and deadly, and it is easily confused with other plants around the state. Here’s what you need to know if you happen to come across Poison Hemlock in Maine.

Hemlock is a beautiful plant with white flowers and a tall stem. This plant can grow up to 12 feet tall and has a green stem and fern-like leaves. The white flowers, one of the plant’s most notable features, grow in clusters with five petals.
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This dangerous plant is easily confused with others like elderflower, wild carrot, and common yarrow.
This plant grows all around the country, except for in a few states like Florida and Mississippi. It is technically an invasive weed that is native to Europe and Northern Africa and it does best in wet areas such as near streams, rivers, and ditches.
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While it may be tempting to pick or stare at the cluster of white flowers, if you come across Poison Hemlock on your adventures outdoors, stay far away.
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Every part of Poison Hemlock is dangerous. Simply inhaling the plant’s fumes or touching the plant can poison humans. If you eat any of the plant’s leaves, it can kill you within hours.
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Unfortunately, Poison Hemlock is extremely dangerous for animals of all kinds as well.
If you accidentally come across Poison Hemlock on your outdoor adventures, take immediate action.
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If you touch the plant, apply a wet compress, calamine lotion, or hydrocortisone cream to the area. If you begin to develop any type of rash, itching sensations, or blisters, seek medical attention right away.
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It is wise to also call poison control to receive further steps of action.

Have you ever come across Poison Hemlock in Maine? Have you ever heard of this dangerous plant in the Pine Tree State? Let us know in the comments.

While Poison Hemlock is certainly dangerous, it isn’t the only terrifying thing that calls Maine home. Check out these 10 things in Maine that could kill you. And before you head outdoors, make sure you are properly prepared. Visit REI or Backcountry for all of your outdoor gear.

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