Caution: Giant hogweed is considered poisonous. The plant’s sap can cause allergic reactions such as itching, redness, swelling, and blistering of the skin. These symptoms may resemble first- and second-degree burns.

It is therefore important to approach this plant while wearing protective clothing, preferably at dusk or on heavily overcast days, and to use sunscreen with a high SPF.

Good to know: As long as the plant is not damaged, the risk of injury is lower.

Another threat to nature: Giant hogweed competes with native plants and thus prevents the establishment of natural vegetation cover.

What can people do? Citizens can help consistently control this plant by reporting sightings (see below for details).

Homeowners can remove giant hogweed from their property in accordance with the safety guidelines mentioned above (Federal Nature Conservation Act [BNatSchG] § 40a, City of Salzgitter Hazard Prevention Ordinance § 6).

What does the plant look like? Giant hogweed stands out due to its size and the reddish spots on its stems (see photo comparison). Hercules’ thistle is often confused with the native meadow hogweed, which is harmless and poses no danger to humans or the environment.

Information:

If you spot a giant hogweed in the wild, please take a photo and email it—including the location—to the Local Nature Conservation Authority: naturschutzstadt.salzgitterde

If you spot a giant hogweed in a neighborhood and do not know the property owner, please also take a photo and email it, specifying the location, to the City of Salzgitter’s Hazard Prevention Department: gefahrenabwehrstadt.salzgitterde