Wild Parsnip

Notice noxious weed

Town of Shelburne Residents,

Wild Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) has been found in some open spaces in Shelburne. Below are pictures of what the invasive plant looks like in its varying stages.

Wild Parsnip

Pictured on the left are the various forms of wild parsnip Wild Parsnip is often found in full sun, but can grow in semi-shade It will produce flowers in the second year	Yellow flower clusters 10 to 20 cm across Stems are green, 2.5 to 5 cm thick and are smooth with few hairs Biennial (lives for 2 years) or perennial   (lives longer than 2 years) Invasive species growing 0.5-1.5 metres tall

Warning: 

Wild parsnip roots are edible, but the sap of the plant can cause severe burns. Collecting the plant from the wild should only be done with extreme care.  Exposed skin may cause serious rashes, burns or blisters when skin touches the sap of the plant and is then exposed to sunlight.   

To avoid exposure to the plant, please follow the following safety measures:

• Keep pets away from Wild Parsnip.
• Wear protective clothing; waterproof gloves, long sleeve shirts and pants and wear eye protection.  Commercial grade spray suit coveralls over your clothing is recommended.  Tape all open, gaping areas of clothing to wrists.
• Use extreme care when removing exposed clothing and eye protection, wash used rubber gloves and launder all used clothing with care.
• Wash yourself immediately with soap and water.

If you are exposed to the sap:

• Symptoms occur 48 hours after exposure.  Rash and scarring may last for weeks. 
• Seek medical attention if burning sensation occurs or if rash appears.
• Any exposure to your eyes, immediately flush and seek medical attention.

Currently, the Town of Shelburne has engaged a Weed Inspector who will proactively remove and potentially spray herbicide to control the further spread of the plant to all  Municipal property.  Please contact the Town Hall to advise of any sightings you can report your concern or contact the Public Works Coordinator by email, or phone at 519-925-2600 x 231. 

Please note:  Private properties will need to find  their own removal of any wild parsnip or related invasive plants. 

For more information please see the publication from Ontario.ca or Ontario's Invading Species webpage.