Giant Hogweed on the Spread

Giant hogweed found in Richmond Hill. Tracey Steele,
Richmond Hill's manager of natural heritage and parkland
acquisitions, stand back from dangerous giant hogweed plant discovered
and destroyed last year, that grew back and had to be removed again this year.
By Adam McLean (photo courtesy of yorkregion.com)

More toxic than previously thought.....


Many of you may remember the post I wrote last year about the Giant Hogweed and its toxicity.  Now the Giant Hogweed is being blamed for increasing the risk of cancer and birth defects because the sap contains carcinogenic compounds (according to Lifestyle at Sympatico.ca) !  Over 400 plants have been recorded within a single area in Ontario.  High concentrations of Giant Hog Weed have been recorded in British Columbia, Ontario (Muskoka area, Richmond Hill and Toronto) and New York.

"If you come across giant hogweed, it’s not recommended that you remove it yourself, but anyone handling the plant is urged to wear protective clothing. A rain jacket, plus waterproof gloves and pants are considered ideal.
The highly visible plants can reach heights of five metres tall and if detected, residents should call the ministry’s invading species hotline or phone a private lawn care company."(Killer Plant Invades Canada, LIfestyle@Sympatico.ca)