Giant Hogweed

Heracleum mantegazzianum, more commonly known as Giant Hogweed, first came to the UK from Central Asia in the 19th century and was initially praised for its ornamental beauty. With its white flowers and thick stem, it is often mistaken for common hogweed, elderflower and even Queen Anne’s Lace.

Now considered one of Britain’s most pernicious non-native, invasive plants, Giant Hogweed now plagues footpaths, riverbanks and parks all across the UK and can cause great harm if it comes into contact with skin.

Does Giant Hogweed burn?

When it comes into contact with skin, Giant Hogweed can cause severe burns and even make skin more sensitive to strong sunlight. The furocoumarin toxins do this by preventing the skin from protecting itself against sunlight, leading to very bad sunburn and scarring. Although symptoms will vary from one individual to another, Giant Hogweed is particularly dangerous for children. And if the sap comes into contact with eyes, it can cause blindness.

The toxicity in Giant Hogweed isn’t limited to just the sap, leaves, and stems, roots, flowers and seeds should all be avoided. Merely brushing the leaves or stem of Giant Hogweed can be enough cause a reaction. A bad reaction can come up in 48 hours and consists of painful blistering which will take a long time to heal.

This can then develop into phytophotodermatitis, also known as Lime Disease (not to be confused with Lyme Disease), which makes skin hypersensitive to ultraviolet light.