Cowbane
Cicuta species · Apiaceae
How it looks
Cowbane is a carrot-family herb that grows in wetlands, with purple streaks on the stem. The leaves are deeply pinnately divided with serrated tips. The flowers are small and white, spreading in an umbrella shape. It grows 3-7 ft (1-2 m) tall and closely resembles wild water parsley or carrot, posing a high risk of misidentification.
Deadly — neurotoxin
All parts of Cowbane, especially the roots, contain cicutoxin; ingestion can rapidly lead to tremors, seizures, and respiratory arrest. It is among the fastest-acting plant toxins known.
Guide for parents
Cowbane is a weed in the carrot family that grows in fields and wetlands. It can be mistaken for ordinary water dropwort or carrot greens, which it resembles. You'd never bring it indoors, but exposure is possible on walks, so be careful not to let your cat lick unfamiliar plants. If you suspect ingestion, head to a 24-hour animal hospital right away. Cicutoxin is the fastest-acting of all plant poisons.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- 6–24 hours after ingestion (symptoms may be delayed)
- Symptoms
- Rapid tremors, seizures, respiratory failure, death
- Action
- Go to a 24-hour animal hospital immediately. Don't wait, even if there are no symptoms.
Details
- Scientific name
- Cicuta species
- Common name
- Cowbane
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts (especially the roots)
- Compounds
- Cicutoxin
- Source
- ASPCA
