Wild Parsnip grows in fields, pastures, roadsides and at the edges of yards thriving in both dry and moist soil conditions. It is a very harty plant that can grow to 5 or 6 feet tall. When in bloom it has petite yellow flowering shots which spread out in an upward umbrella shape. It has the esteemed distinction of being a member of the exclusive Invasive Weed Society. If that is not glory enough it is also a member of the illustrious Poisionous Weed Family! Activated by a combination of sunlight and your touch these plants go into protective mode, resulting in painful skin burns. The burns blister and itch, the discomford may last from days to weeks. Fortunately there is one force that is capable of stopping the rath of Wild Parsnip ~ that force is Winter. With a good winter freeze Mother Nature takes the sting out of the beast leaving behind a hollow, yet sturdy dark gray stalk that makes a great art subject.
Thankfully I usually do not pick most weeds live, but rather after they have been cured by the hand of winter. Consequently, I have not encountered the anguish of an encounter with Wild Parsnip!

Dried Parsnip Stems.

Once wild Parsnip has been dried it's properties
are very sturdy and woodlike.