Cow Parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris). Abundant on Walthamstow Marsh in spring and early summer.
Cow Parsley can be identified by: Fern-like leaves with pointed leaflets. Bracteoles (the group of leaves at the base of flower cluster) are present. The fruit is oblong, smooth and short-beaked.
Also (to make sure it is not the later flowering hemlock) the stalks have no red spots.
WARNING: It is quite easy to confuse Cow Parsley with other plants. Some are dangerous. Do not rely on this identification.
Anthriscus sylvestris flower (Photo: marshWalker, 28/May/14 and 4/6/14 Coppermill Field)
Anthriscus sylvestris plant (Photo: marshWalker, 28/May/14 and 4/6/14 Coppermill Field)
