24. Wisconsin – Water Hemlock (Cicuta maculata)
Water hemlock, the deadliest plant in Wisconsin, grows in wet meadows, marshes, and stream banks. Its clusters of small white flowers make it look deceptively like harmless wildflowers. The roots and stems contain cicutoxin, a potent neurotoxin that triggers violent seizures, respiratory failure, and death. Even minimal ingestion can be fatal within hours. The plant’s prevalence near water sources increases the risk for hikers, children, and livestock. Careful identification is critical, as misidentifying it for edible plants has historically resulted in fatal poisonings.
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