Images: Katie Burnside
Dog walkers and families with young children are being urged to be vigilant after what is believed to be deadly ‘poisonous parsnips’ washed up and were sighted today (Sunday 24 November) on Waterfoot Beach, County Antrim.
Hemlock water dropwort, also known as dead man's fingers, look and smell like parsnips but are highly poisonous and potentially deadly, with toxic leaves and stems that look a lot like parsley.
It is known as one of the UK’s most poisonous indigenous plants. Eating it can cause nausea, vomiting, fever, seizures and hallucination.
Dogs are known to find the plant tasty to eat.
If you are visiting beaches in Northern Ireland, be aware of the Hemlock water dropwort, also known as the poisonous parsnip, which is a toxic plant that can be dangerous to humans and dogs:
What it looks like
Hemlock water dropwort is a perennial plant that grows in shallow water. It is most toxic in late winter and early spring.
Where it grows
It can be found in moist conditions along streams and low-lying areas.
How it can be mistaken for other plants
The leaves of the Hemlock water dropwort can be mistaken for celery, and its tuberous roots can be mistaken for parsnips.
What to do if you find it
If you find what you think is Hemlock water dropwort, you can take a photo and send details of where you found it to your local council authority.