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Warning over spread of giant dangerous plant

Document Cited in Related
Vincent
Published date14 June 2022
Publication titleHuddersfield Daily Examiner
Giant hogweed is said to be spreading and as well as being invasive it could also cause serious health problems

Experts at WhatShed have created maps to track where it is growing. And these maps show there are several giant hogweed hotspots across Yorkshire.

The maps show that the plant can be found across the region, including Huddersfield.

¦What is giant hogweed?

Formally known as Heracleum mantegazzianum, giant hogweed is part of the Apiaceae family, one which includes plants such as parsley, carrot, parsnip, cumin and coriander. However, unlike those household favourites, giant hogweed is an invasive plant that grows and grows.

Originally introduced to the UK in the 19th century from the Eurasia region, giant hogweed is similar in appearance to cow parsley, but supersized. Experts at WhatShed say it can grow up to 20 feet tall, while each giant hogweed plant can spread out to cover a range of around two metres too, making it highly invasive.

¦Why is giant hogweed dangerous?

The risk is very real apparently and people need to be aware of the plant's hairy sap as this is where the danger lies. Containing furocoumarins - organic toxic chemical compounds - they can cause terrible irritation to people's skin.

¦What are the side effects?

Due to the bristling nature of the sap and its hairs, it's easy for people to brush up against giant hogweed...

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