The Dangerous Hogweed?

Columbus, OH(Zone 6a)

In the Columbus Dispatch today they had an article about a non-native plant that had moved into Northeastern Ohio from Pennsylvania. (I'd include a link, but the Dispatch doesn't share with non-subscribers, unfortunately).

Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum), was described rather breathlessly as being a giant plant that could cause second degree burns on the skin from its sap, as well as purpleish scars that could last for years. Anyone attempting to cut down the plant could be burned, and the article warned that if you found Hogweed on your property, you were not to touch it, but to contact your county extension service, who would come out and dispose of it for you.

I have never heard of such a plant, and can't recall seeing anything like it. Is this Hogweed really as dangerous as this article made it out to be?

Nashua, NH(Zone 5b)

Lots of information if you "Google" it!

Columbus, OH(Zone 6a)

Yes, Giorio, but I was hoping to hear from Dave's Garden members who have actually dealt with this weed.

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