Those pesky victorians strike again. Once used as an ornamental plant imported from the Caucasus Mountains between Turkey and Russia, this escapee is one of a handful of plants in the UK that causes real concern.
Giant Hogweed is plant to very aware of. Just touching this plant can cause severe blistering and requires immediate medical attention.
If it’s not already clear, Giant Hogweed is highly dangerous and no part of this plant can be used or touched.
Giant Hogweed appears at the same time many other species that interest the forager appear. It’s closley related to Common Hogweed (a favorite wild edible) and for this reason foragers need to be aware of this species.
Giant hogweed is an invasive plant (and on the DEFRA kill list) that is found throughout the British Isle but is fortunatley not very common. It thrives in disturbed environments like riverbanks, woodland margins, and urban areas. Its presence poses ecological and health risks due to its aggressive growth and toxic sap.
