Westmorland & Furness Council has issued the warning to the public following a report of Hemlock Water Dropwort, which is also known as ‘Dead Man’s Fingers’, washing up at Arnside.
The toxic Hemlock Water Dropwort resembles a parsnip and is described as one of the ‘most poisonous plant in the UK’.
Hemlock Water Dropwort occurs naturally along the shoreline, and according to Westmorland & Furness Council, while its roots or tubers are usually buried, stormy weather can disturb them and leave them exposed.
The council has now urged the public ‘not to touch’ the plant and keep pets away from any affected areas.
A spokesperson for Westmorland & Furness Council said: “We have been made aware that there have been sightings of the root washed up at Arnside and as tides and weather change, it is possible the plant could appear on other beaches and shores in our area.
“We advise members of the public not to touch the plant if they come across it and to keep pets away from any affected areas.
“The public should remain vigilant and be aware that poisonous plants do grow wild in the UK.”
