Wild Parsnip and Cow Parsnip in Oshawa Posted on July 26, 2021 by oshawaexpress in CITY, NEWS Wild Parsnip and Cow Parsnip continue to be a concern across Ontario and can post a health risk to people and their pets, says the City of Oshawa. Wild Parsnip and Cow Parsnip are currently flowering in Ontario, including in local areas in Oshawa. They look like colourful wildflowers but are actually toxic plants that are often found along the edges of parks, open spaces, trails and roadsides. Growth of the plants begin in the spring and lasts through early autumn. According to the city, the plant sap contains chemicals that may cause skin and eye irritation and make the skin prone to severe burning and blistering when exposed to the sun. Symptoms typically occur within 48 hours and consist of painful blisters that may result in scarring.