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Hemlock may grow in clumps on roadsides, waste ground, field edges, path edges, meadows, and poorly drained soil near streams or ditches. This photograph was taken in a field next to a river near York in July.

Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) is a dangerous plant for humans. It contains toxic sap that can cause severe burns. It can grow as tall as 20 feet with huge leaves. It can be confused with native hogweed when not fully grown or when growth is stunted (e.g. regrowth after cutting). The shape of the leaves is different and they are bristly. The stem has red blotches on it (like many toxic plants. Giant hogweed is not native to the UK. It was first introduced as an ornamental plant and has spread thorough the UK. Giant hogweed should be destroyed as soon as it is identified. It is listed under Schedule 9 to the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 with respect to England, Wales and Scotland. As such it is an offence to plant or otherwise cause this species to grow in the wild. Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, giant hogweed is also classified as controlled waste. The photo shows a plant growing on an allotment. Bags have been put over the seedheads to prevent the seeds spreading while the plant is dying from the effects of the herbicide it has been sprayed with.

The leaf edges of Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) are very different from the smoth edges of Common Hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium). Giant Hogweed leaf edge are jagged and sharp.

The stems of Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) are hollow bright green and hairy. They often have purple/red spots or blotches like some other poisonous plants i.e. Hemlock (Conium maculatum) and Cuckoo Pint (Arum maculatum).

The leaves of Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) are large. They can grow to over 1 meter in width.

The berries of cuckoo pint are toxic. They can be seen on stems in the undergrowth and will turn red when ripe.

The leaves of Cuckoo pint (Arum maculatum) are bright green and eventually develop red blotches. The image shows Cuckoo Pint leaves mixed witha few COW Parsley leaves. All parts of the Cuckoo Pint plant can produce allergic reactions in people so it is wise to leave the leaves alone

Cuckoo pint (Arum maculatum) has several alternative names e.g. Lords and Ladies, Wild arum, Jack in the pulpit, Bobbin. It large, arrow-shaped, purple-spotted leaves, hence the name 'maculatum'. The berries contain oxalate crystals that irritate the skin, mouth, tongue, and throat in humans. There may be swellingin the throat, difficulty breathing, burning pain, and upset stomach. However, the acrid taste and tingling sensation in the mouth means that large amounts are rarely taken and serious harm is unusual. It can also cause skin reactions if handled. The effects on rabbits are unknown but it is a plant that should be left alone.