Member of the Apiaceae family. Spotted water hemlock reaches a height of 3-6 feet tall and grows in wet, swampy areas across North America. The purple-streaked, hollow stem supports toothed, compound leaves. Its white flower clusters resemble those of other plants in the carrot family. Spotted water hemlock is highly toxic, and great care should be taken not to mistake it for other harmless members of the Apiaceae family.