Oenanthe crocata

Oenanthe crocata

Oenanthe crocata in its natural habitat

Oenanthe crocata, commonly known as hemlock water-dropwort, is a highly toxic plant native to Europe. It belongs to the Apiaceae family, which includes other well-known plants such as carrots and parsley.

Description

Leaflets of Oenanthe crocata

Oenanthe crocata is a perennial herbaceous plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has hollow stems and a distinctive yellowish sap. The leaves are pinnate with broad, toothed leaflets.

Flowers

Flowers of Oenanthe crocata

The plant produces small, white flowers arranged in compound umbels. Each umbel consists of numerous tiny flowers, which are attractive to various pollinators.

Fruit

Fruiting umbel of Oenanthe crocata

The fruit of Oenanthe crocata is a schizocarp, which splits into two mericarps when mature. These fruits are an important identifying feature of the plant.

Habitat

Oenanthe crocata growing in a sward at Marden

Oenanthe crocata is typically found in damp environments such as riverbanks, marshes, and ditches. It thrives in wet, nutrient-rich soils and is often found in association with other wetland plants.

Toxicity

Oenanthe crocata is one of the most poisonous plants in the British Isles. All parts of the plant contain oenanthotoxin, a potent neurotoxin. Ingestion of even small amounts can be fatal to humans and animals.

Ecology

Oenanthe crocata with Dilophus cf. febrilis

Despite its toxicity, Oenanthe crocata plays a role in its ecosystem. It provides habitat and food for certain insects, such as the Depressaria daucella, a moth whose larvae feed on the plant.

Depressaria daucella on Oenanthe crocata

Identification

Rays and bracts of Oenanthe crocata

Key identifying features of Oenanthe crocata include its hollow stems, the presence of yellowish sap, and the characteristic compound umbels of white flowers. The plant's leaves and fruit also aid in identification.

Bracteoles of Oenanthe crocata

Related pages

• Apiaceae
• Toxic plants
• Wetland plants

Gallery

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  Hollow stem of Oenanthe crocata
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  Clump of Oenanthe crocata