I don’t want to cause widespread panic, but there is a nasty new plant out there called Giant Hogweed, and its wreaking havoc across the country.
How bad is it, you ask?
Well, if you happen to get Giant Hogweed sap on you, and your skin is exposed to sunlight (hard to get away from these days) a chemical reaction occurs which can cause serious burns, and even scaring.
It is a plant I would desribe as somewhat like ‘poison ivy on steroids’ which can reportedly grow to over 15 feet tall!
This nasty invasive species has also been known to cause temporary blindness and even permanent loss of eyesight. If you come across it in your travel, for goodness sake stay away!
I caught my first glimpse of, what I believe to be, Giant Hogweed yesterday along the River Road near Braeside, on the way back from our trailer in Cobden. Although I cannot say with 100% certainty it was Giant Hogweed, it sure did match the description.
If you should happen to spot Giant Hogweed in your area, you are encouraged to report it to the MNR.
A terrible burn caused by Hogweed sap:
For more information check out:
http://www.ontarioweeds.com/weed.php?w=HERMZ