Giant hogweed truly deserves its title “Poisonous Plant of the Year 2008”. The majestic hogweed species is poisonous and causes significant he alth problems after mere skin contact. Reason enough to familiarize yourself with the identifying features of this nasty plant compared to harmless meadow hogweed.
How do I recognize poisonous hogweed?
To recognize hogweed, pay attention to the following characteristics: Giant hogweed is poisonous, 150-300 cm high, with a hollow, slightly furrowed stem and red spots, 3-5-part leaves and large white to tender- pink double umbels, while meadow hogweed is harmless, 50-150 cm high, without red spots and with smaller flowers.
Distinguish between giant hogweed and meadow hogweed - this is how it works
The sooner you identify dangerous giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum), the easier it is to combat it. However, if meadow hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium) appears in your garden, there is no reason to be alarmed. Since these two species are common in Central Europe, the following table illustrates the most important distinguishing criteria:
| Distinguishing features | Giant hogweed | Meadow hogweed |
|---|---|---|
| Poisonous | yes | no |
| Growth height | 150 to 300 cm | 50 to 150 cm |
| Stem Growth | hollow, slightly furrowed with red spots | hollow, angularly furrowed, without reddish coloring |
| leaves | 3 to 5 parts, 100 to 300 cm long | unequally lobed, blue-green, slightly hairy |
| Flower shape | Double umbels with a diameter of 30 to 50 cm | plate-shaped single flowers as double umbels with a diameter of 25 cm |
| Flower color | white to delicate pink | white to cream |
| Flowering time | June to July | June to September |
Giant hogweed is permeated with a poisonous plant sap that is not contained in meadow hogweed. If the toxins come into contact with the skin, the natural UV protection is disabled. Even a few rays of sunlight or the light of a lamp can cause chemical burns and burns. The symptoms range from itching to severe blistering.
Fighting poisonous hogweed with protective clothing
If your garden is infested with giant hogweed, you should remove the uninvited guest as quickly as possible. The plant spreads invasively with up to 30,000 seeds. This is how you properly combat the Hercules perennial:
- Put on protective clothing and work on an overcast day
- Put a plastic bag over each flower or seed head
- Dig up giant hogweed and its roots
- Burn plant residues or put them in the trash can
Concentrate on the vegetation cone because the poisonous plant keeps sprouting from it. Use the spade to cut the roots about 10 cm below the surface and lift them out of the ground. Remaining root residues rot in the soil.
Tip
Were you able to identify a poisonous giant hogweed during a walk based on the characteristics explained? Then please report the location to the responsible regulatory or environmental office. Although reporting is not required by law, it could prevent damage to the he alth of inexperienced children and prevent further spread.
