Heracleum mantegazzianum

Giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum), is a tall, usually biennial, plant that looks similar to cow parsley, with thick, bristly, often purple-blotched, stems and flat-topped umbels of white flowers in the second year.The flower heads can be as big as 60cm (2ft) across, and the plant can reach a height of 3.5m (11.5ft) or more, with a spread of about 1-2m (3.5-7ft). Giant hogweed does not always behave as a true biennial (dying after flowering in the second year) and is sometimes perennial, coming up year after year. WARNING: Giant Hogweed is usually considered to be an invasive weed, and it is harmful. Chemicals in the sap can cause photodermatitis or photosensitivity, where the skin becomes very sensitive to sunlight and may suffer blistering, pigmentation and long-lasting scars. Protective clothing, gloves and a face-mask should be worn when controlling this plant

Contributed by @dawnandsteve1823

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  Full sun to partial shade

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  Occasional watering

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  Full Frost Hardy: 5F (-15°C)

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  All soil conditions