Giant hogweed
What is giant hogweed?
Giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) is a close relative of cow parsley originally from Southern Russia and Georgia.
It can reach over 3m (10ft) in height.
We will add all sites containing Giant Hogweed to our treatment list.
Although an impressive sight when fully grown, giant hogweed is invasive and potentially harmful. Chemicals in the sap can cause the skin to become very sensitive to sunlight and may suffer blistering, pigmentation and long-lasting scars.
Appearance
Giant hogweed is a tall, cow parsley-like plant with thick bristly stems that are often purple-blotched.
The flowers are white with flat-topped clusters with all the flowers facing upwards. The flower heads can be as large as 60cm (2ft) across.
It can reach a height of 3.5m (11.5ft) or more and has a spread of about 1-2m (3.5-7ft).
