Is Giant Hogweed, Heracleum mantegazzianum, an invasive plant and what can be done with it?
Yes and it poses a serious threat to natural ecosystems and human health. The Giant Hogweed can reach an impressive height of 15 feet when flowering. The hollow stems are 2 to 4 inches in diameter. The large blossom consists of numerous white flowers clustered in an umbrella-shaped head that is more than 2 feet across. The sap found in the Giant Hogweed stem and stem hairs causes phytophotodermatitis, a serious skin inflammation activated by exposure to the sun. Symptoms typically consist of painful blisters that form within 48 hours of exposure, and pigmented scars that can last up to 6 years. If you come in contact with this plant, you could experience severe burns to your skin. If you are exposed to Giant Hogweed: • wash affected areas immediately; • keep the affected area out of the sun; • seek medical advice for burns. To remove one of these plants from your own property: •wear protective clothing, including gloves, long sleeves, pants, and eye protection • immediately remove any
Yes and it poses a serious threat to natural ecosystems and human health. The Giant Hogweed can reach an impressive height of 15 feet when flowering. The hollow stems are 2 to 4 inches in diameter. The large blossom consists of numerous white flowers clustered in an umbrella-shaped head that is more than 2 feet across. The sap found in the Giant Hogweed stem and stem hairs causes phytophotodermatitis, a serious skin inflammation activated by exposure to the sun. Symptoms typically consist of painful blisters that form within 48 hours of exposure, and pigmented scars that can last up to 6 years. If you come in contact with this plant, you could experience severe burns to your skin. If you are exposed to Giant Hogweed: • wash affected areas immediately; • keep the affected area out of the sun; • seek medical advice for burns. To remove one of these plants from your own property: •wear protective clothing, including gloves, long sleeves, pants, and eye protection • immediately remove any
