A fairly common weed in Britain, it succeeds in most soils in sun or light shade and avoids acid soils in the wild. It prefers a damp rich soil. This is the plant that Socrates is said to have used to kill himself, though this is probably an error. It requires a large dose if it is to be lethal (this contradicts with the notes above on toxicity), and death from this plant can be very painful whilst Socrates is said to have died without pain. Another report says that poisonous doses cause paralysis, which starts at the feet and moves up the body. There is no pain, the mind remains clear and lucid until death, which is caused by asphyxia when paralysis reaches the chest. The whole plant has a foetid smell.

Leaves - cooked. Although toxic, plants found in the south of England are comparatively harmless and the leaves are used as a pot-herb. They can also be dried for later use. The toxic principle is said to be destroyed by thorough cooking or drying. Caution is advised, especially on the remarks about plants in southern England. See the notes above on toxicity.

Seed - best sown in situ as soon as it is ripe in the late summer. It usually germinates in the autumn.

Waste ground and in damp places, avoiding acid soils and heavy shade.