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Giant Hogweed - what you should know Giant hogweed can be a harmful plant and is found in scattered locations across southern Ontario. The plant can grow up to three metres tall (nine feet), with leaves reaching a span of approximately one half a metre across (20 inches). Giant hogweed has a hollow stem with dark reddish-purple splotches and course white hair. Hairs are also found under the leaves. The plant produces a clear, watery sap found in the hairs and stem. Contact with the plant and this sap may cause skin irritation and blisters. Contact with eyes may lead to temporary or permanent blindness. Giant hogweed was introduced from Europe and can be found in parks, roadsides, stream banks and even backyards.
To report a suspected sighting of Giant Hogweed in Durham Region, please contact the Regional Weed Inspector with the location and description at the following email address: weeds@durham.ca (photo attachments of the plant are welcome). If you suspect a sighting of Giant Hogweed on City of Pickering property, contact our Customer Care Centre at 905.683.7575 or customercare@cityofpickering.com and City staff will inspect the site. Further information on the plant may be obtained by calling the Invading Species Hotline at 1.800.563.7711 or by following the link below. |
