Conditions the last few years have been especially favorable for two weeds in the parsnip family--wild parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) and poison hemlock (Conium maculatum). Wild parsnip and poison hemlock are non-native plants that originated in Europe. The edible roots of wild parsnip were consumed in ancient Greece and Rome while poison hemlock was used as a poison, most notably known as the poison that killed Socrates. Both can pose health hazards that many people may not be aware of
