Hemlock water dropwort root (otherwise known as ‘Dead Man’s Fingers’) is the most poisonous plant in the UK. All parts of the plant are highly toxic and can be fatal if ingested. It has recently been washing up on Cornish beaches, causing concern to dog walkers and beachgoers alike because even brief contact with the plant can prove hazardous.
But why are hemlock water dropwort roots washing up on our beaches, and what can we do to stay safe? Find out in our essential safety guide for dog walkers and families exploring Cornwall’s coast.
Source: BBC
What is Hemlock Water Dropwort Root?
Hemlock water dropwort root (Oenanthe Crocata) is a member of the carrot family (Apiaceae) and naturally occurs in wet areas throughout western Europe and North Africa. It grows alongside slow-flowing streams, freshwater marshes, lakes and foreshores. It can sometimes become exposed during bad weather and wash up on beaches, as has been happening in North Cornwall following the recent storms.
Physical Characteristics – How to Identify Hemlock Water Dropwort
This poisonous perennial plant belongs to the conium maculatum family and is closely related to water parsnip, celery and common hogweed. It is known by several names, including hemlock dropwort, “dead tongue”, balder root or water hemlock.
The leaves resemble flat-leaved coriander or parsley leaves (and smell similar, too), with hollow, grooved stems which grow up to 150 cm tall. It thrives near water and has small white flowers which are umbrella-like in their structure. All parts of the plant are deadly poisonous, and symptoms of ingesting hemlock water dropwort root can include vomiting, seizures, paralysis, hallucinations and death.
Source: https://www.wildwalks-southwest.co.uk/hemlock-water-dropwort/
Why “Dead Man’s Fingers”? Understanding the Root System
The tubers of water hemlock look a little like swollen fingers, which is how it got its sinister nickname. These roots contain the highest concentration of the plant’s toxins, and it is said that just one ‘finger’ will kill a cow.
Natural Habitat and Distribution in Cornwall
Hemlock water dropwort plants naturally grow in abundance in Cornwall alongside sources of fresh water and in wet woodlands. It thrives in waterlogged soil and is widespread across the waterways and estuaries of the UK.
Recent Hemlock Root Sightings Along Cornish Coastline
Cornwall Council has issued a warning to dog owners about hemlock water dropwort roots washed up on beaches in Newquay, urging dog owners to be vigilant and keep their pets on a lead.
There have also been reports of hemlock water dropwort roots washing up on beaches in Porthpean, St Ives and numerous other places all along the coast. At least five dogs in Cornwall have recently died from ingesting this poisonous root, with countless others becoming sick.
Why Are Hemlock Water Dropwort Roots Washing Up?
When we have winter storms and heavy rainfall, the plants can become dislodged from their riverside habitat and taken downstream into the sea. The plant’s tubers are buoyant, which means that they can easily float in ocean currents before getting washed in on the incoming tides.
How to Identify Hemlock Water Dropwort Roots on the Beach
If you see large, cream-coloured finger-like roots on the beach, stay clear. The roots look similar to wild parsnips and can smell like carrots which makes them attractive to dogs and children. You might find them washed up near streams running onto the beach or near rockpools where they have been brought in by the tide.
Source: beach guardian
Historical Cases and Local Folklore
Throughout history, hemlock water dropwort has been surrounded by folklore and superstition. Due to its highly poisonous nature, the plant has long been linked to tales of witchcraft, curses, and malevolent spirits. Hemlock water dropwort was used in pre-Roman Sardinia for ritual killings, producing the infamous ‘sardonic grin’ as victims’ faces were grotesquely twisted from the resulting seizures.
The Hidden Dangers
What Happens if You Touch Hemlock Water Dropwort?
Whilst eating any part of this plant can cause fatal poisoning, touching it usually doesn’t cause too much harm other than blistering and uncomfortable rashes on the skin. That said, we advise exercising extreme caution if you come across hemlock water dropwort on the beach and using suitable protective gear such as gloves and eye protection if you want to bag it up and remove it.
Symptoms of Deadman’s Fingers Plant Poisoning in Humans
Ingesting this plant can cause nausea, sweating, increased heart rate and muscle twitching, confusion, psychosis and death. Symptoms can start immediately and accelerate quickly, with reports of humans dying within three hours of eating the plant.
Effects on Dogs and Other Animals
Even small amounts of hemlock water dropwort root can prove fatal to animals with seizures, vomiting and convulsions coming on quickly. This is why it is vital to be vigilant and keep your dog on a lead at all times when walking them on the beach. If you think your dog might have come into contact with hemlock root, contact a vet as soon as possible.
Source: Canva
Staying Safe
This plant is very common and looks similar to horse parsley or Alexanders which foragers favour. However because there is no known antidote for hemlock water dropwort poisoning, it is best to avoid eating or handling any plant you are unsure of (and keep beloved pets away and on a lead).
What to Do If You Find Dead Man’s Fingers on the Beach
If you find Dead Man’s Fingers on the beach, stay clear. You can inform the lifeguards patrolling the beach who will raise the alarm with the immediate public, and also report it to Cornwall Council who will make people aware and dispose of it safely.
Protecting Your Dogs During Beach Walks
It’s good practice to keep your dog on a lead and monitor where they are at all times when on a beach walk anyway, but especially following storms and heavy rainfall as this is when hemlock water dropwort roots are most likely to be found. Stay vigilant and if in doubt, avoid beach walks with curious dogs who are prone to eating anything they sniff out.
Conclusion
Cornwall’s spectacular coastline offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. While enjoying our beautiful beaches and coastal paths, it’s important to stay informed and be vigilant about safety, but by being aware of potential hazards and following local guidance, you can focus on making wonderful memories along our remarkable shoreline.
