Giant Hogweed Damage
Giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) is an invasive weed that can quickly overtake an area by crowding out other plants. It also poses a serious health risk because contact with the sap can cause severe chemical burns, rashes, and even blindness. Simply brushing by the leaves can be enough to come in contact with the sap, in addition to breaking the stems or leaves.
History of Giant Hogweed
Giant Hogweed is an invasive plant from Asia and is used as a spice in Middle Eastern dishes. The USDA also indicates that it was likely introduced as an ornamental plant also due to its really large leaf and flower size. This invasive has previously been identified in a couple of Illinois counties. As of 2021, it is believed to be eradicated from Illinois.
Regulation of Giant Hogweed
Giant hogweed is a Federal Noxious Weed and the Illinois Exotic Weed Act.