by: ray hanley
TRANSCRIPT
Native to central & southwest Asia
Found in open fields, along roadsides, along streams in natural areas, disturbed soils, and railroad embankments
Ornamental- showpiece◦ Great Britain to U.S.
Favorite of bee keepers
Biennial or perennial herb in carrot family (Apiaceae)
Height – up to 20 feet
Hollow rigid stem – 2-4 inches in diameter◦ Dark reddish purple blotches
Large compound leaves- up to 5 feet wide
White flower head up to 2.5 feet wide◦ Blooms late June through August
Seeds- dry, flattened, and oval (3/8 inch long)
http://factoidz.com/the-giant-hogweed-a-toxic-invader/
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/shared/spl/hi/pop_ups/06/sci_nat_top_ten_0wanted0_list/html/4.stm
http://www.sleloinvasives.org/about-invasives/target-species/giant-hogweed/
http://nyis.info/plants/Images/GH_Compare_1.jpg
http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=HEMA17
Range:◦ Canada◦ America◦ Britain◦ France◦ Germany◦ Belgium◦ Asia
Suppresses growth of native plants
No native predators
Impacts on wildlife- no food or habitat
Increased soil erosion◦ Leaves barren soil in winter when dormant
Do Not Touch!
Brushing against◦ Minor burns
Broken leaves or stems◦ Clear watery sap-glucoside
Sap causes sensitivity to sunlight◦ Skin contact-Severe slow to heal burns, scarring,
blistering, painful sores, and purplish or blackened scars◦ Eye contact- severe irritation or even blindness
If in contact- wash with soap and cold water ◦ Medical attention is advised
http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/invasivetutorial/giant_hogweed.htm
Very difficult to eradicate
Use caution in any type of removal
Physical Removal◦ Mowing, cutting and use of line trimmers◦ Biocontrol◦ Digging out roots of plant◦ Seed dispersal is an issue
Chemical Removal◦ Pesticides- non selective