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Wild parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) is a plant native to Europe and Asia that has become widely established in North America. Its sap contains compounds that make the skin extremely sensitive to sunlight and can cause severe burns.
Attention: Wild parsnip sap can cause severe skin burns when the affected skin is subsequently exposed to sunlight. Never touch the plant with bare hands. In case of contact, immediately wash the affected area thoroughly with plenty of water, protect it from sunlight for 48 hours, and contact Info-Santé 811 if blisters develop.
Wild parsnip is a tall herbaceous plant that generally grows between 1.2 and 1.5 metres in height. It has a thick, grooved stem that is green or slightly purplish in colour.
Wild parsnip spreads through its seeds, which can be dispersed by wind, water or machinery. It is a biennial plant: during its first year, it forms a rosette of leaves; during its second year, it flowers, produces seeds and dies. Young plants emerge in spring (April–May), while the yellow flowers bloom from June to July, attracting pollinators. The seeds mature in late July, and the seed heads may remain visible into winter.
Its flowers are small, yellow and arranged in large, flat, umbrella-shaped clusters called umbels. They generally bloom between June and July. Each umbel can measure between 10 and 30 cm in diameter and contain between 15 and 30 smaller clusters of flowers.
Wild parsnip contains chemicals that make the skin more sensitive to sunlight and can cause burns, blisters and skin discoloration.
Within 24 to 48 hours after contact, the affected area becomes red and often develops painful blisters that can last for several days. The sap is particularly potent during the flowering period.
If you have only a few wild parsnip plants on your property, you can generally manage them yourself. Wear protective clothing, including gloves, long sleeves and pants, and handle the plants with care.
One highly effective method is to destroy the main root (taproot) using a shovel. This prevents the plant from regrowing.
For larger infestations and extensive areas affected by wild parsnip, professional assistance is strongly recommended. Several interventions, often over several years, may be necessary to eliminate the infestation.
Wild parsnip seeds can remain viable in the soil for several years. Patience is therefore essential, as complete eradication can take time. If the plants have already produced seeds, carefully cut off the flower heads and place them directly into sealed bags or containers. This helps prevent the seeds from spreading and limits further growth.
Immediately wash exposed skin with water and soap, then protect the affected area from sunlight for at least 48 hours. Contact Info-Santé 811 for advice, or consult a doctor if the reaction is severe, affects the face, eyes or genitals, if blisters develop, or if you experience a fever or other symptoms.
Never compost or burn wild parsnip plant material.
Place the plants in a sturdy, securely closed garbage bag. Clearly label the bag to warn waste collection workers (“Wild Parsnip – Toxic”) and dispose of it with household garbage.
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