Wikijunior:Summer Flowers of Northern New England/Cicuta maculata

Spotted Water Hemlock (Cicuta maculata)
Description: This plant grows near the shores of ponds, lakes, and rivers. It has many, many tiny white flowers that group together to look like one umbrella-shaped flower. I don't think it would keep you dry in a rainstorm though, because this "umbrella" is only as big as your hand. Spotted Water Hemlock leaves look like the leaves of a fern. It grows about four feet tall. It looks a lot like Queen Anne's Lace, and it looks even more like a wild parsnip. However, Spotted Water Hemlock is very poisonous and can kill a person who eats it. Quick Facts: Some scientists think that Spotted Water Hemlock is the most poisonous plant in North America. It can kill a cow in as little as 15 minutes!