Giant Hogweed🌿

A giant perennial in the carrot family, native to the Caucasus. Invasive in Europe and North America where it is designated for eradication. Sap containing furocoumarins causes severe phytophotodermatitis (skin burns) on contact with sunlight — making it one of the 'most dangerous plants in the world'. Reaches 3–5 m with large white compound umbels. Not yet naturalized in Japan but listed as an alert invasive species.

Identification Points

• ✓3–5 m tall; hollow stem 5–10 cm thick with purple blotches
• ✓Deeply lobed palmate leaves up to 1.5 m wide
• ✓White compound umbel 50–80 cm across

Morphological TraitsAI-estimated, needs verification

Phylogenetic Positionセリ科 →