Carrot-fern
Conium maculatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
48"–96" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
TN
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Poison hemlock is an extremely toxic biennial that can grow up to 8 feet tall with delicate, fern-like foliage and small white flower clusters. This dangerous plant is actually a non-native invasive species that should never be planted in residential landscapes. All parts of the plant are deadly poisonous to humans and animals if ingested.
In an HOA neighborhood
Carrot-fern takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
- Extremely toxic to humans and pets
- Invasive species that spreads aggressively
- Liability risk in residential areas
Wildlife value
While it may attract some pollinators like bees and flies, the extreme toxicity and invasive nature make any wildlife benefits completely outweighed by safety risks.
Common questions
- How much sun does Carrot-fern need?
- Carrot-fern grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Carrot-fern bloom?
- Carrot-fern blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Carrot-fern native?
- Carrot-fern (Conium maculatum) is native to TN, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Carrot-fern attract?
- Carrot-fern draws bees, beetles, and flies.
- Is Carrot-fern HOA-friendly?
- Carrot-fern takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Carrot-fern? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz