What is giant hogweed? How to spot and get rid of the dangerous plant

The giant hogweed growth spurt, caused by the recent hot weather, has resulted in a rise in the number victims suffering from painful blisters and scars in the UK.  WHAT IS GIANT HOGWEED?

Giant hogweed, also known as heracleum mantegazzianum, is an invasive plant that causes painful blisters when touched.  The notorious plant has a thick, bristly stem and can grow to more

than three metres high, according to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). Toxic chemicals in the sap cause photosensitivity, making the skin extremely sensitive to sunlight and often

leading to severe sunburn and scars.  Victims suffer from huge blisters which can take a long time to heal and can even cause permanent damage or blindness, especially in children.  Giant

hogweed was introduced to Britain from Russia by botanists who were impressed with the plant’s striking appearance during the 19th Century.  The plants were originally grown in gardens but

quickly escaped cultivation and are now naturalised in the UK and most of Europe.  HOW TO SPOT GIANT HOGWEED Giant hogweed belongs to the carrot family and is a close relative of cow parsley

with large white flowers that face upwards.  The dangerous plant is usually found by riverbanks and alongside public footpaths but can also grow in parks, cemeteries and other public

spaces.  The plant starts to sprout in the spring and lasts until autumn. It should be treated during the summer.  HOW TO GET RID OF GIANT HOGWEED The RHS advises gardeners to wear gloves

and a face mask as well as covering their arms and legs while removing giant hogweed.   The organisation said: “Protect yourself from any skin contact with the sap, especially your face,

when cutting stems, and carry out control measures in overcast weather avoiding sunny periods. “Wash off any sap as soon as possible with plenty of cold water.” Powerful weed killers may

have to be used if the plants cannot be dug out or suppressed with coverings.  The removal of large areas of giant hogweed should be left to professionals.