Hard to kill giant Hogweed causing rashes, burns
Wild plant ressembles Queen Anne's lace, but can grow 10 feet tall
by BOB RECOTTA THE LEADER

Pictured above, flowering and towering Hogweed.

WATKINS GLEN - A towering and flowering plant that has appeared in the area poses a health risk to those who come in contact with it.

The Schuyler County Public Health Department issued a warning Tuesday on the dangers of giant hogweed, which emits a sap that can severely irritate and burn the skin.

Marcia Kasperzyk, deputy director of public health for Schuyler County, said the spread of the weed prompted the warning.

"In Schuyler County, we just got a report it's in the Finger Lakes National Forest now," Kasperzyk said. "That makes it more likely someone will come in contact with it while hiking."

The weed has also been seen along rural roadsides in Steuben County, said Vincent Spagnoletti, county public works commissioner.

Giant hogweed is a member of the parsley family, according to Stephanie Mehlenbacher, horticulture community educator for Cornell Cooperative Extension.

It appears similar to Queen Ann's Lace, with clusters of small white flowers that bloom at the end of hollow, ridged stalks.

What distinguishes giant hogweed from its cousins like wild parsnip and wild hemlock is its size. Giant hogweed can grow to between 8 feet and 12 feet tall.

Also unlike other members of the parsley family, the sap of giant hogweed can be dangerous.

Mehlenbacher said giant hogweed prefers wet soil typically found along creeks and streams, as well as roadside ditches.

Kasperzyk said anyone suspecting they have giant hogweed on their property should not try to remove it themselves. Mowing, cutting or weed-whacking the weed won't kill it because it extensive root system allows it to grow back. Also, hacking down the weed can also spread the sap.

Mehlenbacher said herbicides containing glyphosate can be used to eradicate the weed, but she warns that such herbicides are non-discriminate and will kill most plants it contacts.

She said anyone accidentally exposed to the sap should wash thoroughly with soap and water and should avoid contact with the sun. Sunlight activates the irritant in the sap.

If the exposed area becomes red and develops a rash, contact a physician.