Heracleum mantegazzianum (Giant hogweed)

Cultivation

Grows best in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in sun. Tolerates partial shade. Monocarpic, so will die after flowering. Tends to colonize rapidly through self-seeding. Classified as a noxious, invasive weed in many introduced areas. In the UK, it is an offence to cause giant hogweed to grow in the wild. Owners of land occupied by giant hogweed may be required to remove this plant. In the US, it cannot be moved into or through the country without a permit.

Suggested uses

Architectural, Beds and borders, Cottage/Informal

UK hardiness

H7

USDA zones

Zone 2, Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9

Sunset zone

WUCOLS

North-Central Coastal = Unknown
Central Valley = Unknown
South Coastal = Unknown
South Inland = Unknown
High and Intermediate Desert = Unknown
Low Desert = Unknown

Foliage

Semi-evergreen

Habit

Erect

Native to

Caucasus

Drought tolerant

No

Flood tolerant

No

Toxicity

Handle with extreme caution, wearing protective clothing, glove, and eye glasses with working with this plant. Contact with sap causes a skin reaction known as phytophotodermatitis in which severe blisters and rashes typically occur when the skin is exposed to ultra violet light (sun or UV rays).