Giant Hogweed
Giant Hogweed is an invasive plant from the caucusus mountains and is found in Wales mainly on the Severn, Wye, Usk and Ebbw.
The plant when young resembles the common hogweed but has larger leaves and the stems have purple blotches. when in flower the plant can reach 5 metres high
The sap of giant hogweed wil cause significant burns to the skins which may take several weeks to heal. the damaged skin will remain photosensitive for several years following exposure and may erupt in blisters if subsequently exposed to sunlight.
If sap contacts the skin immediatley wash off and seek medical attention
The best protection is to prevent the plant coming into contact with the skin, so if swimming in areas known to have Giant Hogweed wear long trousers and sleeves and only change in to swimming gear at the waters edge.
Giant Hogweed is an invasive plant from the caucusus mountains and is found in Wales mainly on the Severn, Wye, Usk and Ebbw.
The plant when young resembles the common hogweed but has larger leaves and the stems have purple blotches. when in flower the plant can reach 5 metres high
The sap of giant hogweed wil cause significant burns to the skins which may take several weeks to heal. the damaged skin will remain photosensitive for several years following exposure and may erupt in blisters if subsequently exposed to sunlight.
If sap contacts the skin immediatley wash off and seek medical attention
The best protection is to prevent the plant coming into contact with the skin, so if swimming in areas known to have Giant Hogweed wear long trousers and sleeves and only change in to swimming gear at the waters edge.