Giant Hogweed, a dangerous invasive plant, look like a tall Baby's Breath type of plant, but can cause dangerous, painful skin damage
Giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) is a VERY LARGE, invasive plant that can cause painful burns and scarring. Brushing against or breaking the plant releases sap that, combined with sunlight and moisture, can cause a severe burn within 24 to 48 hours. Giant hogweed is a Federally listed noxious weed and NYS law prohibits its possession with the intent to sell, import, purchase, transport, introduce or propagate. How Giant Hogweed Causes Burns (SOURCE: New York State Department of Environmental Conservation) Progression of a burn from giant hogweed All parts of the giant hogweed plant contain toxic sap that prevents your skin from protecting itself from sunlight. The sap contains harmful chemicals called furanocoumarins that when combined with sunlight can cause phytophotodermatitis; a serious skin inflammation. Heat and moisture (sweat or dew) can worsen the skin reaction. The reaction can begin as soon as 15 minutes after getting sap on your skin and can result in painful b...