Keep this parsnip-like plant far from Christmas dinner if you spot it on a beach

A plant with lethal poison in its roots has washed up on British shores.

Hemlock water dropwort, or ‘dead man’s fingers’, was spotted on a 20km stretch of Cumbrian coast between Drigg and Parton.

Its white roots contain a deadly toxin called oenanthotoxin which physically resembles a bunch of parsnips and smells like parsley.

But don’t grab some for your Christmas dinner – the poison if ingested will penetrate the nervous system before causing death by asphyxia within hours.

The species is usually found in riverbanks, however coastguards believe the recent rough weather may have helped them wash up by the sea.

The Millom Coastguard Rescue Team said: ‘Please be aware that we have received reports of a highly poisonous plant being washed up on local beaches.

‘So far there have been confirmed sightings between Drigg and Parton.

‘Hemlock Water Dropwort (Oenanthe crocata), also known as Dead Man’s Fingers.

‘Even a small portion can prove fatal to humans by attacking the nervous system. It is also fatal to animals.

‘The plant has a highly poisonous root that looks, and smells, like parsnip.

‘It is highly likely that this is happening due to the aftermath of recent stormy weather.

‘We advise people, especially with children and animals, to stay vigilant, avoid this plant and take extra care when visiting the beach.

‘We are not the agency responsible for its disposal. Sightings should be reported to your local council who will arrange disposal.

‘Please do not touch.’

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