When home gardeners learn the German name when purchasing Acanthus mollis, alarm bells ring. The decorative wild perennial from the Mediterranean region is called true hogweed. Consequently, the question is whether the pretty acanthus plant poses a similar danger as poisonous hogweed.
Is Acanthus mollis poisonous?
Acanthus mollis, also known as true hogweed, is not poisonous and does not pose a danger like the poisonous giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum). This plant was once even used as a medicinal plant and is harmless in the garden.
Acanthus mollis is not poisonous
Botanical taxonomy sometimes causes confusion when the scientific names are translated with German folk names. Acanthus mollis is a shining example. Records from the 16th century show that the Mediterranean wild perennial was referred to as Bärentappe by the Middle High German vernacular. In the further course, the current name True Bearclaw, more rarely Soft Bearclaw or Soft Bearclaw developed.
Native hogweed species, such as meadow hogweed or giant hogweed, come from the genus Heracleum, which contains some poisonous species. Regardless of the verbal confusion, the all-clear can be given regarding the toxic content of Acanthus mollis. The plant poses no threats, such as the dangerous giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum).
True hogweed – the forgotten medicinal plant
In ancient times, Acanthus mollis was one of the official medicinal plants. This classification means that every pharmacy had to have the plant in stock. The remedy was probably available in various preparation forms for internal and external use. The list of traditional areas of application is long, as the following excerpt demonstrates:
- Effective for respiratory diseases, such as cough, cold or flu
- Relieves sprains, gout or bruises
- Healing for wounds, burns or scalds
Tip
With its magnificent flower candles, true hogweed (Acanthus mollis) is the perfect candidate for the sunny perennial bed in the natural garden. A light protection of leaves and needles is enough to ensure that the impressive ornamental plant survives the Central European winter unscathed.
