Giant Hogweed is an invasive, non-native plant that poses a serious threat to human health and natural ecosystems.
Characteristics of Giant Hogweed
- It can reach up to six metres in height
- It has hollow stems that may be five to 10 centimetres in diameter with dark red-purple splotches and coarse white hair
- The leaves of the plant can grow over one metre in width and have hairs on the underside
- The plant also produces flattened oval shaped fruit and numerous white flowers clustered in an umbrella shape form
- Giant Hogweed is sometimes confused with similar harmless plants such as cow parsnip, angelica and Queen Anne's lace
Additional resources
For additional information, please visit:
- York Region - Giant Hogweed
- Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs - Ontario Weeds: Gaint Hogweed