Residents are being warned that Wild Parsnip and Cow Parsnip are now flowering in the area. While these weeds may resemble harmless wildflowers growing along parks, trails, roadsides, and open spaces, they pose significant health risks to both people and pets.
The sap of these plants contains compounds that can cause skin or eye burns—especially when exposed to sunlight. Symptoms typically appear within 48 hours and may include painful blisters that can leave permanent scars, said the City of Oshawa.
Although these plants generally do not attract pets like cats or dogs, the sap can still transfer to animals through contact and may be harmful if ingested.
Residents are urged not to touch or pick these plants. Awareness and avoidance are key, the city says, and families should educate themselves and ensure their children and pets steer clear of the weeds.
How to identify them:
- Wild Parsnip: Yellow flowers on a single, smooth stem reaching up to 1.5 metres tall. The leaves grow in pairs and feature sharp, mitten-shaped leaflets.
- Cow Parsnip: Taller than Wild Parsnip, this plant grows between 1 to 2.5 metres. It has a stem with deep ridges, some purple areas, and fuzzy hairs. The white flowers form in round clusters, and the leaves resemble maple leaves or an open palm with three outstretched fingers.