Watch out for plants, they can be very dangerous!

Many of us may not realize that summer walks in Polish meadows and forests can unexpectedly involve discomfort. One of its potential sources is Sosnowski’s hogweed, an invasive plant that was imported to Poland in the 1950s. In the 1970s. It has spread rapidly throughout the country, becoming a problem for nature lovers and rural residents alike. Contact with the sap of this plant can cause painful burns, and even just being near it during sunny days can lead to serious skin irritation.

What is pine hogweed?

Sosnowski’s hogweed(Heracleum sosnowskyi) is a large, invasive plant native to the Caucasus. It belongs to the celery family(Apiaceae) and is characterized by a height of 1 to as much as 4 meters, large, umbrella-shaped inflorescences with white flowers, and hollow green stems with purple spots. Pine hogweed was introduced to Eastern Europe in the 1950s as a forage plant. However, it was quickly found that its toxicity and ability to spread rapidly outweighed its benefits. Today, it can be found in many European countries, including Poland (particularly abundant in Podhale, river valleys), Germany, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. The plant prefers moist, fertile soils and often grows along rivers, roads and in meadows and forests.

Pine hogweed is a perennial plant with a life cycle of about 3-5 years. In the first year it develops rosettes of leaves, and in subsequent years it blooms, producing thousands of seeds that can survive in the soil for up to 7 years. It is difficult to eradicate. The flowers are gathered in large umbels up to 80 cm in diameter. The plant owes its name to Russian botanist and researcher of the flora of the Caucasus, Dmitry Ivanovich Sosnovsky.

Why is pine hogweed dangerous?

The harmfulness of Pine hogweed is due to the furanocoumarinsin its sap. These substances, in contact with the skin and under the influence of light, especially ultraviolet (UV) light, cause severe burns – photodermatosis of the second and third degree. Symptoms can appear as early as several minutes after contact with the plant, reaching peak severity between 30 minutes and 2 hours. The reaction leads to severe dermatitis, manifesting as painful blisters, burns and long-lasting scarring.

The intensity of the reaction depends on individual sensitivity, which increases in high temperatures, high humidity and intense sweating. The inflammation usually lasts about 3 days, and after a week the irritated areas darken, leaving discoloration(hyperpigmentation) for several months. Irritated skin can remain sensitive to UV light for up to several years. In addition, contact with the sap of the plant can even cause temporary or permanent blindness if the substance gets into the eyes.

The plant also poses a threat to livestock, causing burns – especially to the udders of dairy cows. Consumption of hogweed by animals can cause inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, internal bleeding and diarrhea. Studies have shown that furanocoumarins are less toxic when consumed with food than when they come into direct contact with sun-exposed skin. Nevertheless, these substances still pose a serious health risk. The rapid spread of Sosnovsky hogweed and its displacement of native vegetation further threatens biodiversity.

Preventive measures and treatment

To minimize the risk of damage from Sosnovskiy hogweed, it is essential to recognize it correctly and avoid contact with the plant. If you suspect contact with the sap, immediately wash the affected area with soap and water and avoid exposure to sunlight for a minimum of 1-2 days. Mild skin irritation can be relieved by applying ointments containing steroids. In situations of severe burns, it is necessary to see a doctor.

Pine hogweed cultivation is banned

Cultivation of Sosnovski hogweed is banned in Poland due to health risks and environmental damage. Without proper authorization, it is prohibited to import, keep, grow, propagate and sell this species. Local authorities are often involved in the management and control of these plants, so it is important to report their presence, especially in residential neighborhoods and protected areas, in order to carry out safe and effective removal of the plant. The procedure for removing the plant should only be carried out by professionals equipped with appropriate protective clothing to avoid contact with its toxic sap. If you suspect the presence of Sosnovsky hogweed in your area, it is essential to contact local authorities responsible for invasive species management and control.