Cicuta virosa
TAXONOMY
FamilyApiaceae
GenusCicuta
Zone4
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Cicuta virosa, commonly known as cowbane or northern water hemlock, is a highly toxic perennial plant native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It thrives in wet habitats such as marshes, riverbanks, and wet meadows. The plant is known for its umbrella-like clusters of small white flowers and its hollow, grooved stems. All parts of Cicuta virosa are extremely poisonous, particularly the roots.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Cowbane
European Water-Hemlock
Selinum Virosum
Water-Hemlock
Cicuta angustifolia
Cicuta baldacciana
Cicuta cellulosa
Cicuta mackenzieana
Cicuta nipponica
Cicuta orientalis
Cicuta pumila
Cicutaria aquatica
Cicutaria virosa
Cicuta tenuifolia
Cicuta virosa f. angustifolia
Cicuta virosa f. latisecta
Cicuta virosa f. longiinvolucellata
Cicuta virosa var. latisecta
Cicuta virosa var. nipponica
Cicuta virosa var. orientalis
Cicuta virosa var. virosa
Coriandrum cicuta
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightMedium (6 Hours)
Temperature15° C
Humidity80%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Cicuta virosa requires a wet environment and moderate light conditions. It thrives in temperate climates with moderate temperatures and high humidity. Ensure the plant is kept in a consistently moist or waterlogged environment to mimic its natural habitat.Soil
Cicuta virosa prefers loamy soil that retains moisture well. The soil should be consistently wet or even waterlogged to support the plant's growth. Good drainage is not necessary as the plant thrives in waterlogged conditions.Fertilizer
Cicuta virosa does not have specific fertilizer requirements. It can grow in nutrient-poor to moderately nutrient-rich soils. Fertilization is generally not necessary for this plant.Repotting
Repotting is not applicable for Cicuta virosa as it is typically grown outdoors in natural wetland environments. If grown in a controlled environment, ensure the plant has ample space and a consistently wet substrate.Propagation
Cicuta virosa can be propagated by seeds or division. Seeds should be sown in a wet, loamy substrate in early spring. Division can be done in late autumn or early spring by separating the root clumps and replanting them in a suitable wet environment.Pruning
Pruning is not required for Cicuta virosa. The plant can be left to grow naturally in its wet habitat. If necessary, remove any dead or damaged stems to maintain plant health.Toxicity
Cicuta virosa is highly toxic to both humans and animals. All parts of the plant, especially the roots, contain cicutoxin, which can cause severe poisoning and even death if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, seizures, and respiratory failure. Extreme caution should be exercised when handling this plant.Additional
Due to its extreme toxicity, Cicuta virosa should be handled with care and kept away from children and pets. It is important to wear gloves and protective clothing when working with this plant to avoid accidental ingestion or skin contact with its toxic sap.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
