Giant Hogweed

[smstonypoint]

There have been two recent threads dealing with the eradication of Japanese knotweed. I've been battling that pest, along with two other invasive plant species -- Chinese privet and multiflora rose. I've just read about giant hogweed spreading in the US. It makes those invasive plant species seem innocuous in comparison.

From How to Identify Giant Hogweed, the Plant That Can Cause Severe Burns and Blisters. The link contains some gruesome photos of the burn damage inflicted by the sap.

Has anyone encountered giant hogweed?

Steve

 

[/pine]

IMO none of the previously mentioned invasive species are anywhere near as bad as 'Brazilian Pepper'

 

[GLyford]

If by "encounter" you mean "seen growing at the side of local roads" then yes...if you mean "personally had to avoid touching/attempt to eradicate" then no.

It might have actually been "cow parsnip", but since the sap causes the same skin problems I tend to lump them both together. "Cow parsnip" is only considered "noninvasive" because it is from here.

I just lump them all in with "noxious weeds" and call it a day...

Giant Hogweed and Lookalikes: Giant Hogweed: Horticulture: APH: Maine ACF