Beware This Dangerous Plant Taking Over Missouri Trails

Here’s another reason you won’t catch me hiking anytime soon, and it has everything to do with not knowing which plants are safe and which ones you need to run away from.

I’m not really an outdoorsy person. I mean, I like being outside, hanging out, and chilling, but you won’t see me camping, hiking, or biking. Now that I know there are even more dangerous plants out there besides poison ivy, which I’m extremely allergic to, you can definitely count me out for any future hiking trips.

What Does Hemlock Look Like?

When you’re out and about enjoying what Mother Nature offers, like flowers, beautiful walkways on hiking trails, and all kinds of plants, there’s one plant people say you need to avoid at all costs: the invasive hemlock. It might look like a pretty flower or plant you’d want to touch or smell, but it’s nothing like that.

Read More: The Most Grueling Trail in Missouri Every Hiker Must Try

Where Is Hemlock Found in Missouri?

This plant can grow in your backyard, along hiking trails, on street corners, and is found in nearly every state. The seeds of this plant are easily spread, which is why it has quickly taken over areas throughout Missouri and many other states.

What Happens If You Touch Hemlock?

Those who have come in contact with this invasive plant have learned the hard way just how dangerous it can be. If you accidentally touch hemlock, its poison can cause blisters and welts, and it can interfere with the nerves in your muscles, potentially leading to respiratory failure.

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If you’re like me and not very experienced in the outdoors, you might want to grab yourself a “How to Hike Without Getting Sick” book, if that exists. Because, as beautiful as Mother Nature can be, she can also be vicious and deadly.