Giant Hogweed Is Dangerous

Giant Hogweed, Heracleum mantegazzium, is a real danger in the Pacific Northwest. Originally from Caucasus region and Central Asia,  it was introduced to Britain in the 19th century and has spread to many other countries, including Canada since then. It is considered by many as an invasive plant. It thrives in cool, wet climates, and given this years moist conditions, it has spread quickly.

This plant is phototoxic and causes phytophotodermititis. This translates into severe skin inflammation when  skin is exposed to sunlight. It can cause intense burns and  blisters that can last for nearly decade and possibly blindness if even a small amount of toxin comes into contact with eyes.



Keep pets, children and adults away from this plant. While the most serious effects are due to contact with the sap, its toxin is so strong that direct contact is not required to cause injury.

How to Identify Giant Hogweed:
This plant has stout, dark reddish purple stems and spotted stems. The leaves are large are deeply cut. Flowers are white and umbrella shaped. The plant can reach monsterous proportions in ideal conditions. (up to 15ft in height).

What to do if you think Giant Hogweed is in your neighborhood?
Call 1-888-WEEDSBC to report a sighting
you can also visit the website of the Invasive Plant Council of B.C.


More Information About Giant Hogweed can be found here:

• Wikipedia Entry - Giant Hogweed
• Close Up Picture
• InvadingSpecies.com
• Giant Hogweed
• British Columbia Field Guide to Noxious Plants