What Is Scorpion Cabbage and Is It Dangerous?
Learn about scorpion cabbage, a wild plant with a misleadingly intense name. This guide clarifies its true nature and how to interact with it safely.
The term “scorpion cabbage” refers to a group of wildflowers known for their coiled flower clusters and irritating touch. These plants, while not true cabbages, belong to the genus Phacelia. As native North American plants, they are a common sight in certain landscapes and play a specific role in their local ecosystems.
Identifying Scorpion Cabbage
The plant most frequently called scorpion cabbage is scientifically known as Phacelia malvifolia. It belongs to the Boraginaceae family, which also includes borage and forget-me-nots. This annual herb grows upright, reaching a height of nearly one meter. Its large leaves are divided into lobed leaflets up to 14 centimeters long and have a rough texture.
The flowers are bell-shaped, whitish, and about half a centimeter long. They are arranged in a distinctive one-sided, coiled cluster known as a scorpioid cyme. The entire plant is covered in stiff, glandular hairs that give it a fuzzy appearance and contain an irritating compound.
Where Scorpion Cabbage Grows
Phacelia malvifolia is native to the western coast of North America. Its range extends throughout the California Coast Ranges and north into southwestern Oregon. This species thrives in forest and scrub habitats, often on coastal bluffs, open slopes, and in disturbed areas where sunlight is plentiful. It is frequently seen in the sandy or rocky soils characteristic of its coastal and chaparral environments.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name “scorpion cabbage” alludes to two physical traits. The “scorpion” part comes from the shape of its flower cluster. The flowers bloom along a stalk that coils at the tip, resembling the arched tail of a scorpion as it uncoils.
The “cabbage” portion is not related to the garden vegetable, as Phacelia is not in the cabbage family (Brassicaceae). This name refers to the large, basal leaves that form at the base of the plant early in its growth. These broad, coarse leaves vaguely resemble those of wild mustards, leading to the “cabbage” moniker.
Handling Scorpion Cabbage Safely
The main concern when encountering Phacelia malvifolia is its capacity to cause skin irritation. The plant is covered in fine, glandular hairs that can cause a stinging sensation and contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. These hairs have bulbous bases containing compounds that cause the reaction as a defense mechanism.
When in areas where this plant grows, it is advisable to avoid direct skin contact. Wearing long sleeves and gloves is a practical precaution if you must handle the plant. If accidental contact occurs, wash the affected area with soap and water to remove the irritating compounds. For most people, the irritation is temporary and mild.