A woman walking her dog along the Somerset coast between Porlock and Bicknoller discovered a potentially deadly plant believed to be hemlock root. Helen Napper, who shared her experience with SomersetLive, was strolling on Dunster Beach with a friend and their four dogs when they noticed a “clump of vegetation” near a large drain. Acting swiftly, Helen used a dog poo bag to pick up the root and took it home for identification. She suspects it is hemlock, a highly toxic plant that has recently been washing ashore across the region, prompting her to alert local dog walkers to the danger.
In recent weeks, multiple warnings have been issued throughout the South West, particularly in Devon and Cornwall, due to sightings of this lethal plant on beaches following stormy weather. Known as hemlock water dropwort or “dead man’s fingers,” it ranks among the UK’s most poisonous plants. Commonly found near waste ground, riverbanks, ditches, and shallow or wet areas, the plant’s roots are considered the most toxic part, though the entire plant poses a severe risk to both animals and humans if ingested.
Hemlock water dropwort can be recognized by its carrot-like leaves, which often grow near water, a strong unpleasant odor when broken, a hairless hollow grooved stem, and white swollen roots. The plant contains alkaloids that cause muscular paralysis, respiratory failure, and ultimately death. Even a small amount can be fatal to humans or livestock.
In 2022, SomersetLive reported a tragic incident in which a local vet issued a warning after a dog died of suspected hemlock poisoning just 10-15 minutes after ingestion. With the plant appearing more frequently after storms, residents are urged to remain vigilant to protect themselves and their pets.
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