PENNFIELD TOWNSHIP (WKZO)– An invasive species that has an acute defense mechanism to protect it from humans has appeared in Calhoun County.
Giant Hogweed is native to Central Asia, but was once shipped around the world as an interesting ornamental plant for gardens. That use is no longer permitted.
Just rubbing against a Giant Hogweed plant can cause burning and blisters if the sap from the plant is exposed to sunlight on your skin. If you get any of it in your eye and it could lead to permanent blindness.
Calhoun County Health Department officials put on protective suits to remove the plant they found in Pennfield Township, and will monitor the site for several years to make sure it doesn’t reappear.
They are asking that others watch for it. The plants can grow to be 18 feet high, have stems with bristles and has a flower that looks like Queen Anne’s Lace, but much larger.
They say don’t try to remove it yourself. Leave it to professionals.
