Dangerous Hogweed Plant Causes Burns and Blindness, Popping Up in New Areas
When I was a kid, I was always told, “Leaves of three, let it be.”
I knew that seeing those three shiny leaves of poison ivy meant to stay away, or else I risked being covered in an unbearable rash and would need medicine.
But one plant spotted in multiple states makes poison ivy look like a walk in the park.
Environmental officials are warning us of a dangerous plant that is now spreading to numerous areas where it has never been seen before.
The plant is called Heracleum mantegazzianum, also known as the Giant Hogweed plant. It is a member of the carrot family and can grow to an enormous height of over 14 feet tall.
The plant itself has hollow stems that have purple-reddish blotches and are 2-to-4 inches in diameter. The leaves can be 5 feet wide, and its white flowers and can be 2.5 feet in diameter.
The plant also kills off other native species due to its large overhanging nature, which blocks sunlight for plants at the ground-level.
Under federal lists, this plant is a noxious weed and is extremely dangerous if touched.
The plant contains phototoxins, which signifies that when combined with moisture and sunlight, its clear sap can cause third-degree burns, painful skin and eye irritation, blistering, scarring and blindness.
“Contact between the skin and the sap of this plant occurs either through brushing against the bristles on the stem or breaking the stem or leaves,” the New York State Department of Conservation said.
Giant Hogweed is not native to the U.S. In fact, it originates in the Caucasus Mountain region in between the Black and Caspian Seas.
In the late 19th century, it was introduced to the United Kingdom and Europe. In 1917, it was introduced to America originally as an ornamental garden plant.
So far, the plant has been seen in Virginia, Maine, New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and the Pacific Northwest.
“This plant poses a serious health threat,” the department said. “See your physician if you think you have been burned by Giant Hogweed. If you think you have Giant Hogweed on your property, do NOT touch it.”
If you happen to touch this plant, immediately wash with soap and water, and then stay out of the sunlight for at least 48 hours. It’s also a good idea to see your doctor regardless, just to be sure.
While the plant has been eliminated in many areas across the nation, it still poses a threat to the areas stated above. If you see this plant on your property or anywhere you go, make sure to report your sighting.
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