posted on Jul, 15 2010 @ 11:28 AM
I just seen this on www.sympatico.ca and found it quite interesting. Apparently here in Canada we have an invasion of a poisonous Asian plant. The
Giant hogweed can grow up to almost 20 feet tall, or over 5 meters and is covered in small, blister-like pistules , containing a toxic sap. When
exposed to sunlight this sap can burn your skin or if it comes in contact with your eye it can cause temporary or even permanent blindness. It has
become a problem in St. John’s and on Vancouver island both so it is coast to coast.
The plant also crowds out native species and due to its wide, shallow root system it leaves the soil weak and susceptible to soil erosion along
riverbanks. Even after it's removed or simply mowed down, the weed can easily reseed itself. Each plant can produce 50,000 winged seeds which can
remain viable in the soil for up to 15 years.
If you see one they recommend contacting your local municipality to inform them of the whereabouts of the plant.
In the event you come in contact with one find shelter from the sun immediately. This will stop the sap from photosynthesizing and burning you. Wash
the area thoroughly with soap and water. The skin can redden 24 hours after exposure. An inflammatory reaction usually occurs after three days. If
you have a reaction, you are advised to see a doctor.
Plant description
It is can be 5.5 meters, 20 feet tall.
Has a purple, mottled stem
Huge leaves
And a meter-wide flower head of white blossoms
Giant Hogweed
Hogweed Stem
Hogweed Burn
nyis.info...
source
news.sympatico.ctv.ca...
GummB
edit
Thanky you mods for fixing my newbie location errors
next time I post it will be done properly. I can promise that to all of you. Sorry for any inconveniences
[edit on 15-7-2010 by GummB]
[edit on 15-7-2010 by GummB]
[edit on 15-7-2010 by GummB]
[edit on 15-7-2010 by GummB]