Species Spotted Water Hemlock
white flowers with green-white buds, green leaves and stems

Spotted Water Hemlock

Cicuta maculata var. angustifolia

Also Known As - Spotted Cowbane
Spotted Water Hemlock (Cicuta maculata var. angustifolia) is a perennially growing plant found in wet habitats throughout the United States, such as ditches, streams, and drainages. The stems are erect and can reach up to 6 feet in height, with a stout, hollowed-out center and willow-like toothed leaves. The foliage is mottled with purplish-pink spots, giving the plant its common name. The flowers are fragrant and grow in branched clusters, and can be yellowish, pinkish, or whitish, depending on local climate. All parts of the plant are toxic and can cause severe reactions when ingested. Spotted Water Hemlock is an attractive plant, but should be handled with caution.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Poisonous To Humans:

Yes

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

High

watering

When watering: Water Spotted Water Hemlock (Cicuta maculata var. angustifolia) as needed to keep the soil consistently moist. How much: Water moderately and evenly, ensuring the soil does not become soggy. Do not let the soil dry out completely between waterings.

sunlight

Spotted Water Hemlock (Cicuta maculata var. angustifolia) thrives in sunny and moist soil conditions, so it requires plenty of sunlight in order to flourish. Ideally, a Spotted Water Hemlock should be exposed to direct sunlight for 4-6 hours per day, throughout the growing season. In the spring and summer months, when the sun is at its strongest, the plant should receive the full 6 hours of direct sunlight; while in the fall and winter, when the sun is weaker, the plant can tolerate about 4-5 hours of sun. Additionally, the Spotted Water Hemlock should have a few hours of indirect sunlight each day to maintain healthy growth.

pruning

The Spotted Water Hemlock should be pruned in late fall or early winter after it has gone dormant. Pruning should be done as necessary to remove dead or diseased branches, or to maintain a desirable shape and size. When pruning, only remove 1/3 or less of the foliage at a time. Make sure to remove any branches that cross or rub against another branch, as these will eventually cause damage to the plant. After pruning, always clean the pruning tools to avoid spreading disease.