Britain’s “most dangerous plant” is growing in Leicestershire. And experts warn people to stay away unless they want to risk going blind.
The giant hogweed, which can grow up to 20 feet tall, is growing rapidly across the country. Its height is not just something to marvel at, as the invasive plant has a deadly side, which puts people at serious risk.
Although it is not necessary to report it to the authorities in the same way as knotweed, its danger to humans has led a number of experts, including WhatShed, to create maps to track where it is growing. . Leicestershire is among the affected areas, and now people are warned of the dangers of the giant hogweed, but what is it and why is it so dangerous?
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What is the giant hogweed?
Formally known as Heracleum mantegazzianum, the giant algae is part of the Apiaceae family, which includes plants such as parsley, carrot, parsnip, cumin, and coriander. However, unlike those household favorites, the giant hogweed is an invasive plant that grows and grows and grows.
Originally introduced to the United Kingdom in the 19th century from the Eurasian region, the giant hogweed is similar in appearance to cow’s parsley, but large in size. WhatShed experts say it can grow up to 20 feet tall, while each giant hogweed plant can also be spread to cover a range of about two meters, making it highly invasive.
The sap is one of the most notable parts of the plant, with its thick green stem with patches of purple and white hairs. With thick green leaves that can grow up to five feet wide, giant hogweeds live up to their name.
Giant hogweed is similar in appearance to cow parsley, but grows much larger
Why is it dangerous?
While it is an invasive plant, this is not what makes the giant hogweed the “Britain’s most dangerous plant” according to WhatShed and others: it is what it can do to people. Apparently, the risk is very real and people need to be aware of the hairy sap of the plant, as this is where the danger lies.
Containing furocoumarins, toxic organic chemical compounds, can cause significant irritation to people’s skin as toxins seep deep into a person’s cells.
What are the side effects?
Due to the spiky nature of the sap and its hair, it is easy for people to face the giant hogweed without realizing it. If they do, the toxins in the sap could be released in a significant way, causing both burns and scarring on people’s skin.
In the short term, someone facing giant hogweed can suffer from blisters and rashes, as well as painful inflamed areas.
However, the long-term consequences are more dramatic with people facing a possible disfigurement or long-lasting purple spots on the skin. Those most affected may even experience skin irritation for months or years after the plant comes in contact with them.
Anyone who thinks that the giant hogweed only affects humans will have to think again, as it has been observed that the plant has also caused dog-like side effects, so people are asked to be careful when it comes out. to walk with your dog.
Can you kill a giant hogweed?
The answer here is unlikely, but people should still be careful. Although the risks are high in terms of side effects, they have not caused death.
However, they can cause long-term pain, with especially dangerous sap, as it can leave someone permanently blind if they come in contact with someone’s eyes. Most people who come in contact with the giant hogweed require hospitalization, which means that it cannot be taken lightly if a blister or rash appears after contact.
Where is the giant hogweed?
The giant hogweed is found in various parts of Leicestershire (Image: WhatShed.co.uk)
Recent maps show that giant hogweed is spreading across the country, with the East Midlands heavily affected by the invasive and dangerous plant. In Leicestershire, there are fewer cases, but people are still being warned.
Areas in and around Leicestershire that currently suffer from giant hogweed include:
- Main Street, Swannington
- Bosworth Trail, Whitwick
- East Midlands Airport, Castle Donington
- Close to Burbage sewer works, Burbage
- Bosworth Water Park, Bosworth Market
- Bilstone Road, Congerstone
- Near Shenton Brook, Sheepy Magna
- Ashfield, Oakham
- Anker River, Atherstone
No cases are currently reported in the city of Leicester itself.
What do you do if you find a giant hogweed?
The first rule for anyone who finds the giant hogweed is to keep their distance, as only the slightest touch can cause painful burns and blisters.
However, if someone has come in contact with you, young or old, you should wash the affected area as soon as possible and seek medical advice. Experts also advise trying to get inside and stay away from direct sunlight as soon as possible to reduce the risk of burns.
While there is no legal obligation for homeowners to dispose of giant algae, local authorities will often take steps to eliminate infestations in public areas. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) lists it in Annex 9, Section 14, which means that it is a crime to grow wildlife in England and Wales (similar legislation applies in Scotland and Wales). Northern Ireland).
It can also be the subject of anti-social behavior orders where landowners infested with giant hogweed infested land can be asked to remove weeds or face sanctions. Local authorities have powers in certain circumstances to demand that the giant algae be removed.
More information on giant hogweed can be found online.
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