Giant Hogweed Found Growing Along Sandy Lane

Giant Hogweed has been found growing on the verge of A491 on both sides of the entrance to Wildmoor Quarry.

One is already in bloom, two have buds and there are others currently in leaf. Potentially a public health issue if someone comes into contact with the plant, so PLEASE DO NOT TOUCH.

Worcestershire Highways have been notified.

Giant hogweed is an immensely tall umbellifer (can grow up to 5 metres tall) that displays large, white, umbrella-like clusters of flowers. Its hollow stem is ridged and purple-spotted, and its leaves are large and divided.

The plant produces phytotoxic sap. The sap contains photosensitizing furanocoumarins, which in contact with human skin and combined with UV radiation cause skin burnings. Damaged skin will heal very slowly. Contact can also develop into phytophotodermatitis. This is a type of skin condition that flares up in sunlight and for which there is no straightforward treatment. The intensity of the reaction depends on individual sensitivity. The danger to human health complicates eradication efforts.

If you come across Giant Hogweed elsewhere in Fairfield, Wildmoor or Stoneybridge, please contact us, admin@fvca.org.uk, so that we can monitor and report.