Due to the ongoing flowering season of Caucasian hogweeds, the Department of Security and Crisis Management of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship Office in Wrocław reminds residents that these plants pose a real threat to human and animal health.

The hairs on hogweed leaves and stems produce a burning substance that can cause inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes, blisters and wounds that are difficult to heal. The burning effect intensifies in sunny weather, high temperatures and high air humidity. Children and people suffering from allergies are particularly vulnerable. Symptoms of injuries may appear within 24–48 hours of direct or indirect contact with hogweeds.

As invasive species, Caucasian hogweeds also pose a significant threat to native vegetation. Both Sosnowsky’s hogweed and giant hogweed are classified as established invasive species. Landowners whose property contains hogweeds should take action to destroy these plants.

Given the serious danger, direct contact with this plant should be avoided. If necessary, protect the skin by wearing fully covering clothing, preferably made of synthetic, waterproof materials, as well as long gloves. The eyes should also be protected.

When planning activities aimed at controlling Caucasian hogweeds, it should be remembered that only measures covering all invaded areas—both private and public—can effectively eliminate these plant species.

All currently known methods of controlling Caucasian hogweeds, as well as the principles
and recommendations that should accompany them, are described in the “Guidelines for controlling Sosnowsky’s hogweed and giant hogweed in Poland,” prepared at the request of GDOŚ and financed by NFOŚiGW, available at: https://www.gdos.gov.pl/zwalczanie-inwazyjnych-barszczy.

It is recommended that control of Caucasian hogweed populations begin at the start of the growing season. The assistance of qualified units is advisable when controlling Caucasian hogweeds.

Last year, Sosnowsky’s hogweed caused a fatal accident—a woman who was burned by the plant died. More information at www.barszcz-sosnowskiego.pl.

DUW/SM Bolesławiec/ii