Cow parsnip
Cow parsnip, or Heracleum maximum, is a wildflower native to North America, including Wisconsin. It can reach heights of 4 to 10 feet. It bears large, flat-topped clusters of small white flowers, with each cluster—or umbel—spanning 4 to 12 inches across. Each tiny flower is about a quarter inch wide, with larger ones often framing the edges of the cluster in a lacy display. Its leaves are massive and divided into three parts, with the largest basal leaves stretching up to 18 inches long and wide; their surfaces are softly hairy and toothed at the edges. The stem is thick, hollow, ridged, and covered in fine white hairs, measuring up to 2 inches in diameter. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soils, commonly growing along streambanks, forest edges, and damp meadows. While striking, cow parsnip contains sap that can irritate the skin when exposed to sunlight—making it beautiful, but best admired at a respectful distance. Beyond its striking appearance, cow parsnip plays a key ecological role by supporting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and beetles with its abundant nectar and pollen. (LS)