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Experts issue warning over dangerous giant hogweed plant
Warm summer weather is causing giant hogweed havoc across the UK – with the dangerous plant creeping into gardens, riverbanks and parks.
Giant hogweed, which spreads by seed and grows up to five metres tall, has long been making headlines and has even been regarded as 'the most dangerous plant in the UK' because the plant's sap can cause severe skin burns.
Weedkiller brand Roundup has issued a warning for gardeners to look out for this plant too, as the biggest problem is that the plant actually looks very pretty and can easily blend into any planting scheme.
What does giant hogweed look like?
'Deceptively, the plant is very pretty and looks similar to other flowers in the garden,' say the experts at Roundup. 'It has a green stem that is spotted with dark red and produces white flowers clustered in an umbrella shape.
'The sap within giant hodgweed contains toxic chemicals which can cause severe allergic reactions when it comes into contact with human skin.'
Where is it found?
Hogweed can be found along footpaths and riverbanks. Experts at RHS say it is also most commonly found in gardens and allotments that are adjacent to infested woodland, heathland or common land.
How dangerous is the plant?
If the sap of the plant comes into contact with your skin, it can cause severe, painful burns and make your skin sensitive to strong sunlight.
Research by RHS and other botanists shows that there are five species of giant hogweed and 'when tested all these had high levels of furanocoumarins (the chemicals which cause burning by making the skin sensitive to sunlight) and so all pose a risk to public health.'
What should I do if I come into contact with giant hogweed?
The NHS advise: 'If you touch a giant hogweed, cover the affected area and wash it with soap and water. The blisters heal very slowly and can develop into phytophotodermatitis, a type of skin rash which flares up in sunlight. If you feel unwell after contact with giant hogweed, speak to your doctor.'
What should I do if giant hogweed is in my garden?
Wise Knotweed specialists says the two most common ways to control giant hogweed is through the use of chemicals or excavation. 'Excavation is the quickest method to eradicate giant hogweed, although it is a more expensive option.'
For a garden, the experts at Roundup suggest: 'The plant is easily treated with Roundup Tough Concentrate. The ideal situation is to spray young giant hogweed foliage before it spreads. However if the weed is already rife in your garden it can be spot treated with a concentrated amount of Roundup Ultra and a pressure sprayer.
'Disposal of giant hogweed is vital to ensure it doesn't contaminate other areas of the garden. The best method is to burn all the waste rather than put it in your compost bin, as this could result in it being spread around your garden.'
Remember, when treating the weed it is important to cover arms and legs and wear a face mask, to prevent skin coming into contact with the sap.
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