Giant Hogweed dangerous? The answer is yes. This invasive plant contains harmful chemicals that can cause severe skin irritation, blisters, and even blindness if not handled properly.
Learn about the risks associated with Giant Hogweed and how to identify and avoid it. Our expert advice can help you stay safe while enjoying the outdoors. Don’t let this dangerous plant catch you off guard – arm yourself with knowledge and stay protected.
With its toxic sap that can cause life-changing burns and blisters for those who come into contact with it, giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) is often referred to as the UK’s most dangerous plant.
So, how do you recognise the plant? What will happen if you get your hands on it? What is the best way to get rid of it? Here are the answers to your questions.
What exactly is Giant hogweed?
Giant hogweed, a close relative of cow parsley, was introduced to the UK as an ornamental plant in the nineteenth century and quickly spread out of control.
It is an invasive species that is commonly found along river banks, roads, and railways, as well as wastelands, gardens, and allotments. Giant hogweed can grow up to 5 metres tall, with thick, purple-spotted bristly stems and large, white umbrella-like flower clusters.
Once in flower, Giant hogweed can expel up to 50,000 seeds per plant, dispersing and spreading via passing traffic and water flow.
What happens if I come into contact with Giant hogweed?
Although it is painless to touch the plant, chemicals in the sap can cause severe skin irritation and photosensitivity. Giant hogweed contact symptoms include painful rashes, boils, and blisters that usually appear over a few hours and resemble a bad case of sunburn.
Further sun exposure can reactivate these symptoms, causing frequent and long-term skin damage.
If you believe you have come into contact with Giant hogweed, wash the affected skin thoroughly and as soon as possible with soapy water, seeking medical attention if you begin to feel ill.
What is the best way to get rid of Giant hogweed on my property?
The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (schedule 9) makes it an offence in England and Wales to plant or otherwise cause giant hogweed to grow in the wild (similar legislation applies in Scotland and Northern Ireland).
Owners have no legal obligation to eradicate Giant hogweed on their own property, but they do have a duty of care to ensure that it does not spread further afield.
Controlling Giant hogweed should only be done while wearing full protective clothing and after thoroughly cleaning all garments and tools that have come into contact with the plant.
Some things not to do
Strimmers should not be used to combat Giant hogweed because they can cause airborne seed distribution, and chemical treatment near rivers, streams, and ponds should only be done by a competent operative in collaboration with the Environment Agency.
Giant hogweed, as a controlled waste, can only be disposed of at licenced landfill sites and with the proper documentation. As a result, it is usually recommended that you hire an experienced contractor to remove this invasive plant.
In conclusion
In conclusion, Giant Hogweed is a dangerous plant that can cause severe skin irritation and long-term damage if touched. It’s important to take precautions when removing it from your property as the chemicals in its sap are toxic. If you come into contact with this invasive species, be sure to wash the affected area thoroughly and seek medical attention if necessary.
The best way to get rid of Giant hogweed on your property is by hiring an experienced contractor who has knowledge about proper disposal regulations for controlled waste materials such as this one.
By taking these steps now, you’ll ensure that future generations don’t have to worry about coming into contact with giant hogweed and suffering its potentially life-changing effects.
