Conium maculatum (hemlock)

Hemlock is native to Europe and North Africa. As the name indicates, this whole plant is highly poisonous and even a small amount can be deadly to humans and animals. It is biennial and belongs to the carrot family and has an unpleasant smell. Hemlock preferably grows in damp habitats avoiding heavy shade and acid soils. The plant is hermaphroditic, self-fertile and insect pollinated and can grow up to two meters. Hemlock flowers from June to July with white umbels. This herb has a wide history as medical plant but due to the extreme toxicity it is rarely used nowadays and only under expertise guidance. Hemlock tends to be invasive and can be of serious threat to humans and livestock when growing in the wrong place.

In the wild, the species often germinate in late summer/autumn. Therefore, sow in late summer in situ, or in a broadcast tray under light conditions, approximately 20 °C. Initially sow the seeds in tray substrate and cover the seeds slightly. It is also possible to sow in spring. When large enough to handle transplant the plants into small individual pots in pot substrate.

The pots can be placed in an unheated greenhouse, or outside when the risk of frost is over. When fully rooted in the pots, plant outside in field. Hemlock prefers semi-shade or sunny settings. The plants can start flowering either the first year after winter or the second year. The seeds are harvested in the late summer. Always harvest in dry conditions and use gloves when handling the plant and seeds. Harvest when both the umbels and the stems underneath are brownish and dry. Use a pair of scissors to cut just below the inflorescence.