Numerous warnings have made home gardeners aware of the danger that giant hogweed can pose. If the majestic umbelliferae appear in the garden overnight, the question arises as to whether the poisonous plant is notifiable. You can find out here how to act correctly when encountering the Hercules shrub.

Giant Bear Claw should be removed soon

Bear's hogweed in the garden - fight it promptly instead of reporting it

In Germany there are no plants that have to be registered. Occurrences of giant hogweed or other poisonous plants are therefore not subject to official reporting. If the Hercules perennial spreads cheekily in your garden, it is up to you personally how you proceed with the plant. In view of the poisonous plant sap and the associated health risks, we recommend that you combat it as soon as possible. How to act correctly:

  • Best time: an overcast day in March or April
  • Put on protective overalls including face and head protection, gloves and boots
  • Cut off above ground plant stems
  • Dig roots to a depth of at least 20 cm
  • Burn all plant remains or put them in the dustbin
  • Carry out a follow-up check after 3 weeks

Since the strong-growing Hercules perennial sprout again from the smallest root remains, the soil is separated from the light supply for a few months. To do this, spread out weed or pond liner covered with gravel, soil, or bark mulch.

Please report occurrences in fields and forests

The reports of painful accidents involving children with giant hogweed are piling up. The imposing plant with its beautiful flowers and red-speckled, hollow stems magically attracts little explorers. Inexperienced, adult hikers are also increasingly becoming victims of the aggressive wild perennial. We therefore ask you to inform the environmental or nature conservation authorities of every occurrence of Hercules perennials in the wild. Although the plant does not have to be reported, with this prudent, responsible act you prevent the further spread of the floral invader and prevent further accidents.

tips

Please do not let the warnings about hogweed tempt you into immediately destroying every umbellifer. A variety of harmless plants looks deceptively similar to the Hercules perennial. These include edible wild perennials such as cow parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris) or sweet umbel (Myrrhis odorata) and traditional medicinal plants such as angelica (Angelica sylvestris).

Category:

Herbs