Wild Parsnip and Cow Parsnip are back this season
Wild Parsnip and Cow Parsnip are now flowering in Oshawa. The plants look like colourful wildflowers often found along the edges of parks, open spaces, trails and roadsides until the autumn. However, these toxic weeds are a growing concern across Ontario and can pose a health risk to people and pets.
The plant sap contains compounds that can burn the skin or eyes, becoming even worse when exposed to sunlight. Symptoms typically occur within 48 hours and consist of painful blisters that may result in scarring. Though the plant does not attract the attention of most cats and dogs; the sap may transfer to your pet if they are exposed and can be toxic if ingested.
Community members are reminded not to touch or pick the flowers from these plants. The best ways to prevent contact are to be familiar with the plants' appearance and ensure you, your children, and your pets stay away.
Wild Parsnip
Wild Parsnip has yellow flowers that grow up to 1.5 m tall. The single stem of the plant is smooth and features leaves arranged in pairs with sharp, mitten-shaped leaflets.
Cow Parsnip
To identify Cow Parsnip, look for a 1 to 2.5 m. tall stem with a few purple areas and deep ridges with fuzzy hairs. The plant features white round flower clusters and leaves similar to maple leaves or an open palm with three fingers outstretched.
Stay connected
For more information, visit Oshawa.ca/weeds or call the Invading Species Hotline at 1-800-563-7711.
For City of Oshawa updates, visit Oshawa.ca/NewsCentre to follow us on social media, subscribe to news and alerts, and have your say on Connect Oshawa.