Noxious Weeds Profile - Giant Hogweed
Table of Contents
- Names
- Photos
- Current Status
- Poisonous/Cautions
- Distribution
- Growth Habit
- Method of Propagation
- Control
- Related Links
Names
- English - giant hogweed
- French - berce du caucase
- Latin - Heracleum mantegazzianum
Photos
Giant Hogweed
Current Status
- Ontario Weeds Act - noxious
- Other provinces - no
- Canadian Federal Seeds Act - no
- U.S. Federal Noxious Weed - no
- U.S. Noxious State Reg - none
Poisonous/Cautions
- Giant hogweed can be a serious health hazard for humans. Its
watery, clear sap contains photosensitizing compounds (furanocoumarins),
which, when in contact with human skin and in combination with
UV radiation, can cause burning. Content varies depending on plant
part, but contact should be avoided at all times. The reaction
of the skin depends on individual sensitivity. After 24hrs, reddening
and swelling of the skin can be noticed, which is followed by
an inflammatory reaction after 3 days. Depending on individual
sensitivity, effects can last for months and skin can remain sensitive
to UV light for years. Research has also shown that furanocoumarins
in general may be carcinogenic and teratogenic.
Source: Nielsen, C., Ravn, HP, Nentwig, W., Wade, M. (2005) The Giant hogweed best practice manual: guidelines for the management and control of an invasive weed in Europe. Forest & Landscape Denmark, Forest & Landscape Denmark, Hoersholm.
-
Canadian Poison Plant – Listed http://www.cbif.gc.ca/pls/pp/ppack.info?p_psn=195&p_type=all&p_sci=comm&p_x=px
Distribution
- It can be found throughout Ontario but is more widespread in southern Ontario. The Canadian Journal of Plant Science’;s series on "The Biology of Invasive Alien Plants in Canada" http://www.ontarioweeds.com/media/pdf/page_biology_canada_weeds.pdf provides the most recent information on distribution across Canada.
Growth Habit
- Perennial
Method of Propagation
- Reproduces only by seed
Control
- The University of Guelph/OMAFRA partnership provides an overview of management strategies http://www.ontarioweeds.com/media/pdf/hogweed_research_summary2_2010.pdf
For more information:
Toll Free: 1-877-424-1300
E-mail: ag.info.omafra@ontario.ca