Gardeners are being warned to stay alert for a potentially destructive plant that persists even after the summer ends.
As autumn leaves drops and temperatures plummet, invasive weed experts at Environment Controls have urged the public to stay watchful for giant hogweed.
Whilst its striking summer blooms have disappeared, the poisonous plant continues to present a major danger.
With its withered stalks, foliage, and plentiful seeds, they still carry the risk of serious burns that can resurface for years and potentially cause permanent blindness, the specialists warn.
This foreign, invasive variety can also ruthlessly dominate ecosystems, making it crucial to recognise the warning signs, reports the Express.
Even though summer is over, the plant can still pose a risk -Credit:Getty
Jennifer Holmes from Environment Controls said: “This dramatic looking plant, found along many a river path, or woodland walk, must be treated with extreme caution.
“If you touch Giant hogweed you may not notice anything immediately as the effects may take up to 24 hours to emerge, but soon large blisters will form on skin and will recur when exposed to sunlight. As well as its harmful properties, as it colonises river banks this can make it difficult to eradicate – do not try to remove it yourself, always consult an expert.”
How to spot giant hogweed in autumn
Seed heads: The large, umbrella-shaped flower clusters dry and form large seed heads that can remain intact well into autumn
Seeds on the ground: A single plant produces tens of thousands of seeds, which can accumulate in dense layers, especially in sheltered areas.
Tall, dead stems: Hollow and often several metres high, unless they have been knocked down by passing wildlife these are the most noticeable signs of the plant after summer moves into autumn.
Dead leaves: Large, jagged leaves die back and collapse, often leaving a rosette of shrivelled, grey leaf remains at the base of the plant.
Giant hogweed can be dangerous if you come into contact with it -Credit:Getty
What happens if I touch giant hogweed?
If you’ve come into contact with giant hogweed, you might notice burns on your skin that re-blister every time they’re exposed to sunlight. Direct contact with the sap in the eyes can also cause severe irritation, temporary vision loss, and in extreme cases, permanent blindness.
This poses a ‘significant risk’ to curious children and pets.
Any symptoms may not appear for up to two days, giving unsuspecting individuals more time in the sun, making the damage worse.
So if you or your pet come into contact with giant hogweed sap, immediately wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and cold water – and crucially, keep the affected skin out of direct sunlight for at least 48 hours.
Make sure to seek immediate medical attention if blisters develop, and especially if sap gets into the eyes.
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