Can be mistaken for Queen Anne's Lace, but...
This is highly poisonous-- it's Water Hemlock.
Water Hemlock is also known as Devil's Porridge, Beaver Poison, Cowbane or Poison Parsley. Water Hemlock is a very poisonous plant that has been used for centuries for assassinations and executions. It is extremely toxic to humans and animals, and eating any amount can cause death. It is most toxic when it is fresh.
The Water Hemlocks are the most poisonous, deadly plants in North America. All parts are deadly poisonous. Even a small mouthful can kill an adult.
Do not handle these plants. If you do, thoroughly clean your hands immediately afterwards. Take appropriate steps to avoid accidentally ingesting any part of these deadly plants or their juice.
The stem is magenta-streaked. Cattle, horses, and sheep have died from grazing on it. It is related to Poison Hemlock, the plant used to poison Socrates.
Source: The Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Wildflowers (Eastern Region)
July 10th, 2011
Source: The Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Wildflowers (Eastern Region)
July 10th, 2011
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