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and its native look-alike Cow parsnip.

Giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) is an introduced ornamental plant from Asia. It is favoured for its massive size and large leaves - impressive at the back of the flowerbed. Unfortunately it is also invasive, especially along streams, and the stems contain a sap which causes painful blistering and sun sensitivity when it contacts our skin.

Giant hogweed looks very much like our native Cow parsnip (Heracleum lanatum) that also likes to grow in wet areas such as water filled ditches and stream sides. The first noticeable difference is that giant hogweed is much larger. Also, hairs on the leaf undersides are shorter, it has more of the purplish bumpy spots and the seeds have a slightly different shape.

Giant hogweed

Cow parsnip

The links below can help you discern the difference between these two plants, as well as provide information to protect yourself if you find yourself in the unfortunate position of having to remove some giant hogweed plants.

http://www.anpc.ab.ca/wiki/index.php/Heracleum_mantegazzianum

http://www.ontarioweeds.com/weed.php?w=HERMZ

http://www.kingcounty.gov/environment/animalsandplants/noxious-weeds/weed-identification/giant-hogweed.aspx

http://www2.worksafebc.com/Publications/Multimedia/Videos.asp?ReportID=34980

Giant Hogweed National Factsheet