29-07-2025
Public warned about the dangers posed by toxic Giant Hogweed plants
The invasive non-native plant can cause severe blistering on the skin if exposed to UV light - and can be particularly harmful to children.
A national trade body is calling on the public to remain alert to the hazards posed by a dangerous invasive plant that could cause harm during the summer months.
The Property Care Association (PCA) is highlighting the issues linked to Giant Hogweed, citing serious public health risks.
The invasive non-native species produces highly poisonous sap, posing a significant threat to public wellbeing.
Any contact with Giant Hogweed combined with UV light exposure – including natural sunlight – can result in serious discomfort and painful skin blistering.
Daniel Docking, Technical Manager of the Property Care Association's Invasive Weed Control Group, said: "It's important to make the public aware of the presence of Giant hogweed, and the risks associated with exposure to it.
"This is a highly invasive weed that grows vigorously and its distribution and frequency is increasing over time.
"Every year there are reports of injuries affecting people who have come into contact with the plant, as it produces a skin reaction that is antagonised by exposure to sunlight.
"Blisters can occur 24-48 hours after exposure and damaged skin heals very slowly.
"Children can be particularly affected, as they can encounter the plant while playing outdoors in the summer.
"Some cases can lead to people needing urgent medical attention, due to the severity of the blistering.
"Longer-term complications can emerge too, with the condition re-occurring over a period of years.
"Where this happens, the rash and the itching coming back every time the skin is exposed to UV light."
The toxic plant also poses a threat to pets and wildlife.
The PCA has provided guidance to help members of the public spot Giant Hogweed, which can occasionally be mistaken for Britain's native Hogweed, Cow Parsley or Hemlock plants, though these are considerably smaller and feature leaves with smoother edges.
Nevertheless, the trade body strongly advises people against approaching the plant too closely when attempting to identify it.
Key characteristics of Giant Hogweed
Height – The most notable aspect of Giant hogweed is its enormous size. The plant can reach heights of up to five metres and boasts a stem measuring up to 10 centimetres across.
Flowers – The plant develops large, white, umbrella-like flower clusters, with individual umbels capable of generating 50,000 seeds each.
Leaves – A distinctive trait of Giant Hogweed is its dramatically jagged foliage, which can extend up to three metres in length.
Markings – Giant hogweed's stem typically displays patchy purple blemishes. Coarse bristles are also present on the stem and beneath the leaves.
Daniel added: "As well as the health issues, Giant hogweed is a major concern from an ecological point of view too, so it is really important that its growth is contained.
"The huge size of the leaves cuts-off any sunlight reaching the soil so there can be major changes to the local plant communities and all the invertebrates that depend on them."
If you come across Giant Hogweed on council property, it's best to report it to the local council. If it's seen on private property, you should get in touch with the landowner.
