Viroqua Wisconsin: Along the country roadways

When diving the back roadways of Vernon County, this summer, you will see many wildflowers, which are in a profusion of full bloom. With all the rain and warm weather, this year has been just perfect for their growth. But... Beware, the Wild Poison Parsnips seem to be doing extremely well too! They are plentiful and easily spotted if you know what to look for. However, If you don't ... here is what to avoid, towering stalk that are about 3-5 feet tall and pretty lacy yellow flowers that resemble Queen Ann's Lace. This plant grows well along the roadsides, in ditches and in rich soils. It can also invade and take over fields and pastures, of which is a concern if eaten by any grazing animals. If you see wild parsnips, don't touch them, as the plant's sap can cause server burns and blisters when combined with ultraviolet rays in sunlight a condition called phyto-photo-dermatitis.