Giant Hogweed
Giant Hogweed was introduced to Ireland in the 19th Century. The leaves and flowers are very similar to cow parsley and the identification of Giant Hogweed is often confused for it. The most noteworthy differences are its height and that it can cause serious burns to the skin due to its phototoxic sap.
In summer, Giant Hogweed can reach up to 5 metres in height. Like many invasive species it is a perennial, meaning that in winter the leaves and flowers die and fall off the plant however, a brown hollow stem remains standing. Small rosettes with long, jagged, bright green leaves begin to appear in April. The leaf will continue to grow and the stem will also quickly begin to grow from this time, allowing it to reach such a great height. The leaves in summer can reach up to 3 metres in length and up to 1.5 metres in width.
It was a pleasure to have your team on site, tackling the Japanese Knotweed removal for us. You were approachable, efficient and professional and we look forward to working with you again very soon.”
Dominic Gallagher, Project Manager, Eric Wright Group
Giant Hogweed can be effectively treated through the application of herbicides such as glyphosate. Since each plant can produce over 25,000 seeds, it is essential to continue treatment over a number of years, as new growth takes hold. To remove Giant Hogweed in a short timescale it is possible to excavate the main root of the plant and remove the seed reserve from the surrounding soil. This material can then be treated in situ or removed to a less sensitive part of the site. Talk with us to find out more about a range of treatment methods.