Giant Hogweed in Spring- large, jagged leaves
Giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) is capable of producing thousands of seeds and last season’s parents would be proud to see the mass appearance of their offspring which have already been spotted in areas of Edinburgh and Glasgow. For people living in close proximity to these outbreaks the feeling is not shared! In 6 weeks giant hogweed infestations will be well established and pose a significant threat to anyone who comes into direct contact with this noxious weed. Giant hogweed sap is capable of causing severe chemical burns to exposed skin. Each year, the media reports cases of people burnt by this non-native invasive weed and no doubt this year will be the same. It can, however, be prevented if people know what to look out for and then avoid exposing themselves to this harmful plant. So if you spot the the jagged leaves of giant hogweed then please DO NOT TOUCH them. By learning what giant hogweed looks like you can not only prevent this menacing plant from burning you but you can help the environment by reporting it to the landowner and encouraging them to have it eradicated. To learn how to identify giant hogweed, please visit our giant hogweed page. More pics can be found on our Facebook page here.
If you think you may have giant hogweed or any other invasive weeds (Japanese knotweed, Himalayan balsam etc.) on your property please call Scotland’s premier invasive weed eradication specialist, Invasive Weeds Agency on 0845 676 9252 or contact us here.
IWA. Getting to the root of the problem.
