giant hogweed grows in vermont, us.
giant hogweed grows in vermont, us.
where does giant hogweed grow in the us?
vermont
giant hogweed is widespread throughout western and northern europe, especially along many terrains, such as coastal areas and riverbanks. by forming dense stands, it can displace native plants and reduce wildlife habitats. it has spread in the northeastern and northwestern united states, and southern canada and is an invasive species across western europe; in sites where it has settled, it overtakes the local native species, "heracleum sphondylium".
heracleum mantegazzianum
the sap of the giant hogweed plant is phototoxic. contact with the plant sap prevents the skin from being able to protect itself from sunlight, which leads to phytophotodermatitis, a serious skin inflammation. a phototoxic reaction can begin as soon as 15 minutes after contact with the sap. photosensitivity peaks between 30 minutes and two hours after contact but can last for several days. authorities advise that all humans (especially children) should stay away from giant hogweed. protective clothing, including eye protection, should be worn when handling the plant. contact with the sap of giant hogweed should be immediately washed with soap and cold water, and further exposure to sunlight should be avoided for at least 48 hours. other "heracleum" species, such as the "cow parsnip" ("heracleum maximum"), are likewise phototoxic and hence, similar caution is advised. due to physical similarities to queen anne's lace, giant hogweed and its relatives are sometimes mistaken as harmless plants.
heracleum mantegazzianum