Sometimes, the most dangerous predators in nature are some of the most beautiful specimens that you’ll ever see. This is the case with the giant hogweed. It came into public knowledge when it crossed the Atlantic Ocean and officially established itself in the United States as an invasive species. Here’s some more information about this terrifying plant.
What is Giant Hogweed ?
Heracleum mantegazzianum, or commonly known as giant hogweed, is a plant native to Hungary and southwest Asia. It was introduced to the United States in 1917, and recently it started establishing itself in different communities.
This plant is strikingly beautiful, which is what makes it so dangerous. It grows to be very tall, up to 14 feet, and has large broad leaves spreading several feet. When it blooms, it produces clusters of white flowers.
Symptoms of Poison
Giant hogweed produces a toxic sap. The chemicals in this sap are known as photosensitizing furanocouramins, and make the skin extremely sensitive to light. The sap works quickly, and whatever touches it becomes extremely sensitive to light.
When the sap touches the skin, it can cause a break out of very serious burns caused by exposure to the sun. Over a period of several days, these burns get progressively worse and lead to blisters that can leave scabs that will last a lifetime.
However, giant hogweed can have and even worse consequences on the eyes. If the sap touches your eyes—this can happen if you touch it and later touch your eyes—it can cause blindness. This blindness may resolve itself after a period of days or it may become permanent.
How to Avoid This Plant
By now you understand that you must avoid this plant by any means possible. If you live in the United States, you can keep track of this plant’s spread and keep an eye for it on your travels. Currently, giant hogweed is found in Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Ohio, Michigan, and Virginia.
If you notice a giant hogweed growing in your yard, deal with it as soon as possible. This species is unbelievably invasive, and it can crowd out the other plants in your garden and put you and your neighbors at risk.
If you try to cut it down and get rid of the roots, the plant will shoot down deeper roots and spread even more. This makes it difficult for a person to get rid of it by himself/herself. Therefore, you should contact an invasive species expert and have them remove the plant. They should be well-educated in giant hogweed and its eradication.
And if you do get giant hogweed sap on your skin and eyes, you must seek medical attention immediately. It is very important to thoroughly rinse your skin and eyes. Applying sunscreen on your skin can minimize your burns, and wearing sunglasses may keep your eyes from getting burned by the sun.
Giant hogweed is a huge threat to any community. Get to know this plant well, so you can keep it away from you and your family.
