Homonym: Conium maculatum (Poison)
Conium maculatum, commonly known as poison hemlock, is a highly toxic plant native to Europe and North Africa but has spread to North America. It belongs to the Apiaceae family and can grow up to 2 meters tall. The plant features small white flowers arranged in umbrella-shaped clusters and has smooth, hollow stems with distinctive purple spots.
All parts of Conium maculatum contain potent alkaloids, particularly coniine, which can cause respiratory failure and death if ingested. Historically, it is known for its association with the death of the philosopher Socrates, who was sentenced to drink a poison made from this plant.