Giant hogweed: Public enemy

Abstract

Now widely recognised as the UK’s most dangerous plant and amid a plethora of press articles providing photographs depicting the excruciating burns experienced from persons unwittingly coming into contact with giant hogweed, surveyors need more than ever to be alert to the possibility of this invasive plant colonising subjects being inspected. Significant legal penalties, possible imprisonment and substantial fines relating to allowing the spread of this dangerous plant underpin the importance of the subject matter. This paper concentrates on identification of giant hogweed at various stages through its lifecycle, how to differentiate from similar species, legalities, eradication and control.