Hemlock Water Dropwort
oenanthe crocata
Also known as: ["Deadly Hemlock","Hemlock Water Parsnip","Spotted Water Hemlock"]
Overview
A highly toxic perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and North Africa, known for its hollow stems and umbels of small white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Oenanthe |
| Botanical Name: | Oenanthe crocata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a cool, moist environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to moist-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist but well-draining soil; prefers loamy or sandy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically light pruning annually or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or overgrown stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates low light conditions; avoid direct sunlight.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter conditions if moving from low light; protect from intense sun to prevent leaf burn; ideal for shaded garden spots or indoor areas with indirect light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; prefers shade; adjust placement based on light intensity.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
moist, rich, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (15–20°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers protection from extreme cold.
Protect from frost; avoid extreme heat; maintain moderate temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or root cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes carefully.
- Plant cuttings in prepared medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
- Monitor for root development.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with added perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not typically required for root cuttings.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; establishment can take a full growing season.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pots, rooting medium, humidity dome (optional).
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide warmth for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back dead or weak stems; shape plant lightly to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged foliage as needed to maintain appearance.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead/damaged growth; shape lightly; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure adequate drainage.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out crowded roots; place in a slightly larger pot with drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; repot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the root zone until soil is moist but not saturated; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or organic matter for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Prolonged cold can damage roots and slow growth; may become dormant in freezing conditions.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor; may go dormant in very hot conditions.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water carefully to avoid heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring to early autumn); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Highly ToxicOenanthe crocata is highly toxic to cats. The neurotoxins in the plant can cause severe neurological and systemic effects, including muscle tremors, paralysis, and respiratory failure. Even small amounts ingested can be life-threatening to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Highly ToxicOenanthe crocata is highly toxic to dogs. The neurotoxins present in all parts of the plant can cause severe neurological and systemic effects in canines, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, and respiratory distress. Ingestion can be fatal without prompt veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Highly ToxicOenanthe crocata, commonly known as water dropwort, is highly toxic to humans. All parts of the plant contain potent neurotoxins, including oenanthotoxin, which can cause severe neurological and systemic effects upon ingestion. The toxin disrupts normal nerve function and can lead to paralysis, respiratory failure, and potentially death.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Oenanthe crocata safe to grow in a garden?
A: No, it is highly toxic and should only be grown by experts in controlled environments.
Q: What are the symptoms of poisoning by Oenanthe crocata?
A: Symptoms include paralysis, respiratory failure, and potentially death.
Q: Does Oenanthe crocata have any medicinal uses?
A: Historically, it has been used in folk medicine, but it is extremely dangerous and not recommended for any use.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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