Poisonous plants – hemlock water-dropwort
September 20, 2011![](https://gallowaywildfoods.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/hwd-leaf-structure-e1458892571639-337x189.jpg)
Hemlock water-dropwort has a fascinating history. Its very toxicity once held it in high esteem when capital punishment was more common, and easy methods of execution valued. A “sardonic” smile, is a direct reference to the widespread use of HWD in Sardinia where a decoction of its roots were used to administer death sentences.