PEMBROKE — The County of Renfrew continues to be concerned with the spread of Wild Parsnip. Several inquiries were received in 2015 with regards to the presence of Wild Parsnip on public and private property and further calls are expected in 2016.
Wild Parsnip (Pastinaca Sativa) is an invasive plant that is increasingly common within the County of Renfrew in areas of uncultivated land, roadside ditches, nature trails, as well as on and surrounding rural and residential properties.
Wild Parsnip may pose a health risk to humans. The plant sap contains chemicals that may cause skin and eye irritation and make the skin prone to burning and blistering when exposed to the sun. The blisters typically occur one to two days after contact with the plant. This can result in long-term scarring of the skin.
The best way to avoid contact with Wild Parsnip is to become familiar with what the plant looks like so you do not accidently come in contact with the plant.
Wild Parsnip is a highly branched plant, with hollow green stems. It has two growth stages: non-flowering leafy rosettes at ground level and 0.5 to 1.5 metre-tall yellow flowering plants. In the first year of growth, low-growing non-flowering rosettes of leaves form with a cluster of spindly, compound leaves that resemble celery leaves. Second and third year plants have tall, branched flowering stalks that usually bloom in early June to late July. Seeds are flat and round. It is a biennial plant, reproducing only by seed. The seeds can lie dormant for years making it even more challenging to control.
Further information about Wild Parsnip can be obtained from:
http://www.invadingspecies.com/invaders/plants-terrestrial/wild-parsnip/
http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/crops/facts/ontweeds/wild_parsnip.htm
Jason Davis, Area Weed Inspector for the County of Renfrew shared this message, “Residents are encouraged to become familiar with Wild Parsnip and its effects and should take measures to protect themselves.
“County staff continue to respond to reports of Wild Parsnip and other noxious plants.”
