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Safe Snakeroot Removal #922078

Asked November 17, 2025, 2:28 PM EST

We are clearing an area of snakeroot to make room for other native plants in our garden. Our plan is to pull up to remove roots. I have heard that snake root is poisonous. Is it poisonous to touch? Are there safety precautions to take? We will be wearing gloves. Are coveralls or eye protection necessary? Thank you!

Baltimore County Maryland

Expert Response

Most toxic plants are only hazardous if actually ingested; touching them (with a few notable exceptions, like Poison Ivy and Giant Hogweed) is generally a non-issue, though it's always a good idea to wear gloves, since you never know when someone will be sensitive to the sap or leaf hairs of certain species. (The hairs on azalea and dogwood leaves, for instance, not uncommonly can make people's skin itch. The sap of some members of the carrot or rue families can be skin irritants, or cause skin damage where sap on the skin is exposed to sunlight.) If you were removing Giant Hogweed, whose sap is known to be medically significant in terms of a health risk (eye contact would be dangerous for that species), would require more protective measures like wearing eye and skin protection, but Eupatorium and other species are not that risky. (The common name of Snakeroot may be used for more than one species. We assume you're referring to the native Eupatorium/Ageratina species.)

Miri
Dear Miri,

Thank you very much! I appreciate your timely help and knowledge. I was really feeling stressed about taking on this task, and your words have brought me much comfort. I also am grateful for the specific examples you shared. Thank you again, and I hope you enjoy the day!

Ashley 

On Tue, Nov 18, 2025, 9:08 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied November 18, 2025, 2:10 PM EST

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