It’s Enormous…
Wednesday, July 21st, 2010
Every year I write about Giant Plants that carry poison and can kill you….and every year I get ignored – so here’s this year’s version….
The trouble with a lot of the alien species of plants that have been introduced to the UK is that they are attractive…thus people don’t immediately associate them with being problematic.
Giant Hogweed is a perfect example of a wonderful architectural plant, statuesque, tall, striking, amazing flower head – but the most deadly and dangerous plant growing wild in the UK at present.
At this time of year it’s easy to spot - with its huge flower heads growing two metres tall with the heads being about half a metre across. It is abundant on watercourses and wetlands and is particularly prevalent in town centres and urban areas.
Planted by the Victorians for its architectural features, Giant Hogweed produces thousands of seeds every year and spreads rapidly. Chemical treatment will eventually kill the plant though the area needs to be monitored for several years after treatment to ensure that new growth from seeds is caught before getting established.
The stems and leaves of the plant produce a sticky sap which is poisonous and will cause blistering of the skin in contact. Children are particularly susceptible to the toxins of the plant and every year hundreds of people attend casualty without realising that it is Giant Hogweed that has caused their condition.
For more information please call 0161 723 2000 and ask to speak to Alex Dayes.
Mike C




