Giant Hogweed
The best time to identify giant hogweed is when it is in bloom in June. Photo by Laura Smith
Additional Images
Common Name: Giant hogweed
Scientific Name: Heracleum mantegazzianum
Origin: Asia
Description
Giant hogweed is a biennial herb that can grow 8-14 ft tall. Plants sprout in early spring from forked taproots or seeds. Stems are hollow, and leaves are lobed. The best time to identify giant hogweed is when it is in bloom in June.
Habitat
This plant colonizes rich, moist soils along roadside ditches, stream banks, waste areas and forest edges.
Threat
Giant hogweed is on the federal noxious weed list because of its dangerous sap. It threatens riparian areas by displacing native plants and exacerbating soil erosion.
Management
If you find giant hogweed, please do not touch the plant, take photos of the entire plant (stem, leaves, flower, seeds), note the location, and send a report with the information via email to ghogweed@dec.ny.gov, text to 518-320-0309, or call the Information Line at 845-256-3111. If confirmed, DEC will contact the landowner to discuss control options.
Regional Distribution
Scattered
WNY PRISM Priority
Tier 3 – Containment
Invasive Species Priorities – Tier Chart
Pathways
Giant hogweed was introduced to the US as an ornamental garden plant.
Giant hogweed is a prohibited species in New York State – for more information on Prohibited and Regulated Species, visit http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/99141.html.
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