Have you ever been on a beach in the UK and come across a white long plant that looks and smells almost like parsnip?
If you have, you have discovered a Hemlock Water Dropwort (Oenanthe crocata) - a plant also known as Dead Man’s Finger.
These strange plants have appeared on the beaches of Cumbria in recent weeks - from sightings on St Bees beach to warnings from Millom's coastguard.
What is a Hemlock Water Dropwort - and are they dangerous?
The first thing you should know about a Hemlock Water Dropwort is just how poisonous they are.
A small portion of these strange plants can prove fatal to humans and animals as it attacks the nervous system.
Millom Coastguard and rescue team have advised people to be aware of the highly poisonous plant on their walks and picnics.
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A spokesperson for the Millom Coastguard and rescue team said: "The plant has a highly poisonous root that looks, and smells, like a 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."
Why is it poisonous?
The Hemlock Water Dropwort is a flowering plant in the carrot family, Apiaceae.
It is native to the British Isles, Western Europe and the Iberian Peninsula.
This plant has caused several cases of livestock poisoning with toxic leaves and stems which resemble parsley.
Meanwhile the plant's toxic roots look and smell like parsnips - this is the most poisonous part.
The Hemlock Water Dropwort is poisonous due to a toxic chemical in the plant known as oenanthotoxin.
In simple terms, the 'hemlock element' contains an acidic alcohol substance which leads to uncontrolled muscle spasms or epileptic seizures.
It is similar to Cicutoxin - a natural yet poisonous chemical compound produced by several plants.
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