WHAT?? Most Poisonous Plant in America Found in Utah

There are two types of people: those that want to hike, and those who would rather die without having to put on a pair of cargo shorts.

If I had to pick one, I'd lean towards the latter.

But Utah might be the best outdoor state in the world. It has everything from the red rock deserts in Moab to the alpine meadows in Uintah.

It has elite mountains and deserts that not a lot of areas have. Who has the snow capped mountains and the 100 degree deserts this close?

You can go to Bryce Canyon and stargaze like a mad man.

River raft down Logan Canyon.

Pick a bunch of wild flowers at the Cedar Breaks.

It's amazing.

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BUT! Utah is also home to the most poisonous plant in the country.

Most Poisonous Plant in America Found in Utah

According to usu.edu: (LINK TO FULL ARTICLE)

"Water hemlock is probably the most poisonous plant in Utah, containing alkaloids. The roots are the most toxic part of the plant. When roots become exposed and are eaten by livestock, death occurs in 1 to 12 hours.

The leaves and stems lose most of their toxicity as they mature. Sheep do not seem to be as affected as cattle. Symptoms of poisoning include muscle twitch, rapid pulse, rapid breathing, tremors, convulsions, excessive salivation or frothing at the mouth and dilation of the pupils."

Water hemlock is found along waterways and marshes. It looks kind of like a wild carrot.

Watch out for it! And make sure your animals aren't exposed either.