Stirling residents are being reminded of the dangers of Giant Hogweed and its potentially harmful impact on health as growing season approaches.
The invasive and toxic plant is usually found by riverbanks, rough pastures and on wasteland.
In recent years volunteers on private land, using protective clothing, have been tackling the problem in areas which include the banks of the Allan Water down to where it meets the Forth.
Stirling Council’s land services team is currently assessing and treating hogweed growth on council land.
If found on private land it is the responsibility of the landowner to take steps to eradicate the plant.
Giant Hogweed can grow up to five metres tall and contact must be avoided as the sap is phototoxic, causing serious skin burns under sunlight that can reoccur for many years.
Convener of the environment, transport and net zero committee Jen Preston said: “We strongly advise the public to show caution around Giant Hogweed as we move into the growing season and the summer months.
“Our staff have been treating the plant in various locations across Stirling this year and we will continue to do all we can to control it on council land.
“Giant Hogweed is highly invasive and spreads easily. It poses a serious risk to humans and animals and people should not touch any part of the plant, while pets should also be kept away from it.”
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Giant Hogweed has long, green stems which branch out into clusters of small white flowers.
Typically these are two to three metres in height bearing flower heads up to 80cm across and the lower leaves are often one metre more in size and spikey.
It can be confused with the common hogweed, cow parsley, elderflower or bishop’s lace. It’s set apart by its purple-hued stem, thin spines and leaf stalks covered in spots.
Where it grows, Giant Hogweed out-competes native flowers and reduces species diversity. Due to its hazards it also prevents access.
To report a sighting on council land, contact 01786 404040 or fill out an online form on the council website.
Members of the public can also report an invasive plant sighting on private land via the Scottish Invasive Species Initiative or by contacting the landowner.
