About
Oenanthe crocata, the hemlock water dropwort, is an extremely poisonous, robust perennial to 1.5 m with hollow, grooved stems, pinnate leaves and flat-topped clusters of small, white flowers in midsummer. Commonly found in wet habitats � all parts are highly toxic. A plant for reference and wildlife value, not for household gardens with children.
About the genus
Oenanthe are perennials of damp ground, marshes and water margins with hollow stems, pinnate leaves and flat-topped clusters of small, white flowers in summer. Several species are very poisonous.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisturePoorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Bogs
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens
Native toEurope, N. Africa
ToxicityTOXIC if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling 11724,oenanthe-fistulosa,Oenanthe fistulosa,tubular water dropwort,Oenanthe fistulosa
Care notes
CultivationHemlock water dropwort grows naturally in damp meadows and near ditches and ponds and can become a nuisance if left unchecked. For a list of alterntive plant to use in ponds and streams, please go to our advice profile on pond plants
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free