Poison Hemlock

conium maculatum, is the most poisonous plant in north america. it is a hardy weed that grows in woodlots, fencerows and waste areas. it grows up to 6 feet tall and resembles it's cousins parnips and carrots. it can be identified by its smooth purple spotted hollow stems. it's leaves are finely divided like carrots and when bruised smell like parsnips and are extremely nauseating if tasted.

used in ancient greece to poison condemned prisoners, socrates being the most famous.

pretty flower.