Giant Hogweed

 

Here is one view of the GIant Hogweed plant from below. (Photo: Shutterstock)

Giant Hogweed was brought over from England for its decorative properties and planted in New England and Northwestern gardens because of it's unique and beautiful properties. But as the seeds spread it has become their Kudzu of the South. Hogweed grows along streams, fields, forests and along roadsides and has now spread into Virginia.

Photo credit: Love that Garden.com

It's pretty and reminds me of Queen Anne's Lace which is also a member of the carrot family.

The Queen Anne’s lace plant, also known as wild carrot, is a wildflower herb found in many parts of the United States, yet it was originally from Europe.

Read more at Gardening Know How: The Queen Anne’s Lace Plant – Growing Queen Anne’s Lace And Its Care https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/queen-annes-lace/queen-annes-lace-plant.htm

The Queen Anne’s lace plant, also known as wild carrot, is a wildflower herb found in many parts of the United States, yet it was originally from Europe.

Read more at Gardening Know How: The Queen Anne’s Lace Plant – Growing Queen Anne’s Lace And Its Care https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/queen-annes-lace/queen-annes-lace-plant.htm

So what’s the big deal. It is a pretty plant. Right?

It’s a killer plant. Literally.

Photo from Department of Enviromental Conservation

 When combined with moisture and sunlight the sap can burn your skin and eyes. The result? Painful blistering, long time sun sensitivity, permanent scarring and blindness. If you do come in contact with the Giant Hogweed sap you need to wash with soap and water immediately. Stay out of the sun for at least 48 hours and if you feel burning or damage to your skin you need to see your doctor as soon as possible.

Here is another view of the Giant Hogweed plant. (Photo: Shutterstock)

Brushing up against this plant is treacherous. The sap can create a mist of dangerous vapor that can burn your skin all over. It can grow to 14 feet and the stem can grow from 2-4 inches around. Like the size of a coke can. The leaves can grow 5 feet wide. The top of the plant springs flowers that have a diameter of 2 1/2 feet each.

It likes open areas with lots of sunlight and moist soil but can also grow in part sun. Hikers need to watch out for this plant.

Here is a link to identifying this Hogweed. Watch for it – Don’t touch it. You must wear protective gear to get rid of it. Remember it might be coming to a city near you!

 http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/72766.html

Photo from Department of
Enviromental Conservation

Photo by

David L. Marrison and David J. Goerig