Recognize hogweed - important characteristics of the Hercules shrub

Recognize hogweed - important characteristics of the Hercules shrub

Differentiate between giant hogweed and meadow hogweed - that's how it works

The sooner you identify dangerous giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum), the easier it will be to control it. If, on the other hand, meadow hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium) appears in your garden, there is no need to worry. Since these two species are common in Central Europe, the following table clarifies the most important distinguishing criteria:

also read

  • Is every hogweed poisonous? - How to tell the difference
  • Fight hogweed successfully - this is how you remove giant hogweed correctly
  • Which hogweed species grow in Germany?
Identifying featuresGiant hogweedMeadow hogweed
ToxicYesNo
Stature150 to 300 cm50 to 150 cm
Stem growthhollow, little furrowed with red spotshollow, angular furrowed, without reddish color
leaves3 to 5 parts, 100 to 300 cm longunevenly lobed, blue-green, slightly hairy
Flower shapeDouble umbels with a diameter of 30 to 50 cmplate-shaped single flowers as double umbels with a diameter of 25 cm
Flower colorwhite to pale pinkwhite to cream
HeydayJune to JulyJune to September

Giant hogweed has a poisonous plant sap flowing through it, which is not contained in meadow hogweed. If the toxins come into contact with the skin, the natural UV protection is deactivated. Even a few rays of sunlight or the light of a lamp lead to chemical burns and burns. The symptoms range from itching to severe blistering.

Fight poisonous hogweed with protective clothing

If your garden is struck by giant hogweed, you should remove the uninvited guest as quickly as possible. The plant spreads invasively with up to 30,000 seeds. How to fight the Hercules shrub properly:

  • Put on protective clothing and go to work on an overcast day
  • Put a plastic bag over each flower or seed stand
  • Dig up giant hogweed and its roots
  • Burn plant residues or throw them in the garbage can

Concentrate on the vegetation cone because the poisonous plant keeps sprouting from it. Use the spade to prick the roots about 10 cm below the surface and lift them out of the ground. Remaining root remnants rot in the earth.

Tips

Were you able to identify a poisonous giant hogweed on the basis of the characteristics explained while walking? Then please report the location to the responsible regulatory or environmental authorities. Notification is not required by law, but it could prevent harm to the health of inexperienced children and prevent further spread.