Poison Hemlock (Conium maculatum) on Apr 19, 2026
Submitter has sample
Description of specimen
The subject has purple stems from a central bulb, with jagged leaves and an oily sting if touched. If mowed or cut carelessly, it releases a cloud of burning vapor akin to pepper spray.
It initially grew in great abundance across wide swathes of the property, but has been reduced to a few thickets that resurface in spring.
They are most concerning at the point as a source of toxic runoff into the well system, and frustrating as I have to wear PPE to remove them without inhaling their toxin or getting it in my eyes when a stem breaks.
Thanks for reaching out. Unfortunately poison hemlock is so widespread in our area that there are no resources for it's removal. However if you are willing to remove it yourself we would be happy to talk best practices with you. Chemical control is going to be the easiest option with most glyphosate or triclopyr products working well on it. If you want to talk about specific mixes we would be happy to discuss that with you. Other than that manually digging it is your next best bet. Let me know if you have any other questions.
Best wishes,
Coleman Hepner
Coleman Hepner
April 20, 2026, 1:39 p.m.