Northern Dancer
Survivalist
The Giant Hogweed [Heracleum mantegazzianum] is a plant native to Asia. It was likely introduced to North America as an ornamental garden plant. With no known diseases or insect pests the plant has escaped into the wild and has become an invasive species which threatens our natural ecosystems.
It is now invaded many regions of the world, including Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States.
It's huge resembling Queen Anne's Lace, Angelica, and Cow parsnip. Unlike native species Hogweed can grow up to 5 metres [15 feet] tall and has an herbaceous stem 5 to 10 centimetres in diameter.. The stem and leaf stalks are hollow, covered with coarse hairs, and are often purple-spotted.
So... what's the problem?
If you touch the clear watery sap from the plant's stem or hairs, you could experience a reaction within 48 hours.
On skin, sap can cause sensitivity to sunlight. This can cause painful blisters and burns, which could lead to pigmented purple and black scars. In eyes, sap can cause temporary or permanent blindness.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU COME IN CONTACT WITH IT?
Wash the affected areas immediately with running water.
Avoid touching your eyes.
Stay out of the sun for at least 48 hours after contact with the sap to prevent a skin reaction.
SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION!
I've seen this plant growing along the Grand River where I live. I reported it to our local health officials as requested.
One of the principle problems is that it attracts attention - usually children - who are enamoured by it's size and peculiar look and like to stand under the plant like the man below.
CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL HEALTH OR PARK OFFICIALS TO SEE IF THE PLANT IS IN YOUR AREA.
Be safe, Play Safe!
It is now invaded many regions of the world, including Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States.
It's huge resembling Queen Anne's Lace, Angelica, and Cow parsnip. Unlike native species Hogweed can grow up to 5 metres [15 feet] tall and has an herbaceous stem 5 to 10 centimetres in diameter.. The stem and leaf stalks are hollow, covered with coarse hairs, and are often purple-spotted.
So... what's the problem?
If you touch the clear watery sap from the plant's stem or hairs, you could experience a reaction within 48 hours.
On skin, sap can cause sensitivity to sunlight. This can cause painful blisters and burns, which could lead to pigmented purple and black scars. In eyes, sap can cause temporary or permanent blindness.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU COME IN CONTACT WITH IT?
Wash the affected areas immediately with running water.
Avoid touching your eyes.
Stay out of the sun for at least 48 hours after contact with the sap to prevent a skin reaction.
SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION!
I've seen this plant growing along the Grand River where I live. I reported it to our local health officials as requested.
One of the principle problems is that it attracts attention - usually children - who are enamoured by it's size and peculiar look and like to stand under the plant like the man below.
CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL HEALTH OR PARK OFFICIALS TO SEE IF THE PLANT IS IN YOUR AREA.
Be safe, Play Safe!