A WARNING has been issued after a potentially lethal plant was spotted on a UK beach this week.
Hemlock water dropwart, the toxic plant also known as dead man’s fingers, can kill humans and animals within an hour.
The “highly poisonous” species was spotted on a section of Cumbria’s shoreline.
Arnside, Cumbria, with Westmorland and Furness Council has warned locals that it could appear on other beaches in the area due to recent turbulent weather conditions and temperamental tides.
The council has advised people not to touch the plant and avoid walking pets in the affected areas.
The toxic plant can be fatal to humans and animals, leading to death within hours as it can attack the nervous system and cause the body to shut down.
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Even small amounts can lead to convulsions and death by suffocation.
Hemlock water dropwart typically grows along river and stream banks, but it is believed that recent storms may have caused it to wash up on the beach.
The plant’s white roots, which resemble parsnips and smell like parsley, contain a potent poison called oenanthotoxin.
Although its roots are buried, stormy weather and aggressive tide changes can disturb the plant and leave it exposed.
The spotting of this deadly plant comes only a couple of months after another sighting on Cumbria beaches in December.
At the time Millom Coastguard Rescue Team urged the public to stay vigilant, particularly those with children and pets, and avoid the plant entirely.
It said: “Even a small portion can prove fatal to humans by attacking the nervous system.
“It is also fatal to animals.
“We advise people to stay vigilant, avoid this plant and take extra care when visiting the beach.”
Visitors were urged to report any sightings to their local council for safe disposal, and were strongly advised not to touch the plant.
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