Water Hemlock
cicuta maculata
Also known as: ["Spotted Water Hemlock","Spotted Cowbane"]
Overview
A highly toxic perennial herbaceous plant native to North America, known for its hollow stems and umbrella-like clusters of small white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Cicuta |
| Botanical Name: | Cicuta maculata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: wetland edges, marshes, or shallow water gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; retains moisture but does not stay waterlogged.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-draining soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust based on intensity and season.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; provide shade during peak summer hours; monitor for signs of sunburn or etiolation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply to encourage root growth; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
moist, rich, loamy soil with good drainage
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid compacted soil; ensure good aeration.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; match fertilizer to plant's growth stage.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or yellowing leaves; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly until runoff; ensure pot has drainage holes; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, avoiding foliage; ensure water reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Highly ToxicCicuta maculata is extremely toxic to cats due to its cicutoxin content. Ingestion can cause rapid onset of severe neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms, which can be fatal.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Highly ToxicCicutoxin in Cicuta maculata is highly toxic to dogs, causing severe neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms. Even small amounts can be fatal, leading to convulsions, respiratory failure, and death.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Highly ToxicCicuta maculata, commonly known as water hemlock, contains cicutoxin, a potent irritant and convulsant that affects the central nervous system. Ingestion can lead to severe neurological and gastrointestinal distress, potentially resulting in death.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cicuta maculata safe to grow in a garden?
A: No, it is extremely toxic and should only be grown by experts in controlled environments.
Q: What parts of the plant are toxic?
A: All parts of the plant are highly toxic, especially the roots.
Q: How can I identify Cicuta maculata?
A: It has hollow stems with purple spots, compound leaves, and small white flowers in umbrella-shaped clusters.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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