Classification
 Nomenclature
Scientific Name:
Conium maculatum L., Sp. Pl. 243 (1753)
Vernacular Name(s):
hemlock
 Description

Erect annual or biennial, with foetid odour when crushed. Stems hollow, striate, up to 2–(3) m high, usually light green and purple spotted or blotched, sometimes tinged purplish or pink, particularly toward base. Lvs 2–4-pinnate; ultimate segments narrowly or broadly ovate to deltoid, pinnatisect or serrate, 5–40 mm long; petioles light green and purple blotched when mature; stem lvs similar to basal, but shortly petiolate and 1–3-pinnate. Umbels 1–8 cm diam.; rays 4–16; bracts c. 4–8, narrow-triangular, acuminate, reflexed; bracteoles 3–6, triangular, confined to outer side of umbellets. Fls numerous, white, c. 2 mm diam. Fr. dark brown, 2.5–3 mm long; ribs slender, light brown, often crenulate.

[From: Webb et al. (1988) Flora of New Zealand. Volume 4.]

 Biostatus
Exotic
 Phenology

Flowering: Sep.–Jan.

 Bibliography
Biosecurity New Zealand 2012: Regional Pest Management Strategies Database. http://www.biosecurityperformance.maf.govt.nz/
Connor, H.E. 1977: The Poisonous Plants in New Zealand. Edition 2. Government Printer, Wellington.
Connor, H.E.; Fountain, J. 2009: Plants that Poison: A New Zealand Guide. Manaaki Whenua Press, Lincoln.
Linnaeus, C. 1753: Species Plantarum. Impensis Laurentii Salvii, Stockholm.
Stewart, J. 1971: Plants in New Zealand Poisonous to Man. New Zealand Department of Health, Wellington.