Species · GBIF taxon 3034826
common cowparsnip
Heracleum maximumAlso known as American Cow-Parsnip, Satan Celery, Indian Celery, Pushki
Common cowparsnip stands as a towering herbaceous perennial, often reaching heights of over two meters in moist, sunny environments. Its massive, flat-topped clusters of white flowers act as bustling landing pads for hundreds of native pollinators, from tiny parasitic wasps to heavy bumblebees. The deeply lobed, maple-like leaves and hollow, ribbed stems are covered in fine, stiff hairs that contain phototoxic sap.
ToweringWildflowerPollinator-Magnet
1 / 7- diet
- Autotrophic (Photosynthetic)
- family
- Apiaceae
- threats
- Habitat loss, displacement by invasive giant hogweed, and herbicide spraying
- life Span
- 3 to 10 years
LC
Sap causes severe blistering in sunlight and resembles deadly hemlock; do not touch or ingest.
The sap contains furanocoumarins, which cause severe blistering, rashes, and permanent scarring when exposed to sunlight.
Never touch the plant with bare skin, and wash any exposed areas immediately while keeping them shaded.- Observe from a distance: Admire the impressive size and busy pollinator activity without touching the foliage.
- Wear protective clothing: Use long sleeves and gloves if clearing brush near these plants to avoid sap contact.
- Wash immediately: Clean any skin exposed to the sap with cold water and soap, keeping it out of sunlight.