Hemlock water dropwort

This is hemlock water dropwort (Oenanthe crocata), by some accounts the UK’s most poisonous plant.

It is a tall, impressive plant that grows thickly on either side of the Lambrok tributary. It has bright green, ferny foliage and, at this time of year, many large white umbelliferous flowers that attract beetles and flying insects.

Photographs by Suzanne Humphries

Hemlock water dropwort is easily confused with several plants that have edible roots or leaves. Here is a very frightening video to make the differences clear to anybody who might be thinking about foraging for wild food in the park.


More poisons to worry about later in the year.

One thought on “Hemlock water dropwort

  1. I err on the safe side and don’t eat anything I find growing wild.

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