Beware of the giant hogweed

Originating in the Caucasus and existing throughout Europe and in various parts of North America,, some isolated outbreaks of Giant Howeed (Heracleum mantegazzianum, Heracleum sosnowskyi, Heracleum persicum) have made their appearance in recent years in the municipality. It is a highly invasive plant  reaching 3 or more meters in height at maturity with a stalk between 5 in 10 cm in diameter, it suppresses the growth of other nearby native plants.  Most critical for humans is that it secretes sap containing toxic chemicals (furanocoumarine) that make exposed skin photosensitive to U.V. rays.  Thus, after contact with the tiny hairs on the leaf or stalk, or with the sap droplets from cutting the stalk, exposure to the sun caus cause 2^nd and 3^rd degrés burns.  Probably the most effective way for individuals to control this plant is by slashing the roots approximately 20 cms underground to prevent formation of flower parasols that carry seeds (thousands  per stalk).  Cutting must be done before the flowers open or any seeds can be spilled, in July and continuing trough August to make sure that no seeds reach the ground. (Seeds can survive and proliferate for as long as 10 years). For more information, consult this Website : http://www.giant-alien.dk/manual.html