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Cornell Fruit Resources: Berries

Resources for Commercial Berry Growers

HomeBerry Integrated Pest Management (IPM)New and Emerging Pest Issues in BerriesGiant Hogweed

Giant Hogweed

Genus species: Heracleum mantegazzianum

Distribution: Broome, Cattaraugus, Cayuga, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Monroe, Nassau, Niagara, Oneida, Onondaga, Ontario, Orange, Orleans, Oswego, Putnam, Schuyler, Steuben, Sullivan, Tioga, Tompkins, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates Counties.

Background: Native to the Caucasus region of Europe; this plant was introduced into England in the 19th century as an ornamental. It was later introduced to the US. The first North American planting of giant hogweed was in gardens near Highland Park in the city of Rochester, New York. Spread of this noxious weed species has increased dramatically during recent years.

Crops of Concern: All berry crops where it is present but established bushberry and caneberry plantings in particular

Potential for Economic Impact: Apart from being an invasive weed, this species may pose a problem in u-pick operations as it causes a skin irritation similar to, but some most cases, more severe than poison ivy, including burning, itching, blisters, skin discoloration and possible scarring. This reaction is initiated after contact by exposure to sunlight (phytophotodermatitis).

Identification: Giant Hogweed is a member of the carrot and parsnip family (Apiaceae). A perennial plant with tuberous roots reaching15 to 20 feet in height. Stems are 1 -4 inches in diameter and marked with dark purplish blotches, hairs, and raised nodules. Leaf stalks are spotted, hollow, and covered with sturdy bristles (most prominent at the base of the stalk). Compound leaves are lobed, and deeply incised; reaching up to 5 ft. in width. Numerous white flowers up to 2.5 ft. in diameter form flat-topped, umbrella-shaped heads. Plants dies down to the roots each winter, growing new stalks in spring. Reproduction is by seed. Seeds may persist in soil up to 7 years.

Monitoring and Management: Eradication/removal prior to seed-bearing is essential to prevent establishment of large populations and/or extensive spread

  • Cultural Management – All of these methods should be done with extreme care and only while wearing protective clothing and eye protection.
  • Chemical Management – Spot treat young plants or growing stalks pre-bloom. Shielded applications of glyphosate may help minimize possible impact on bush and caneberries. See listings under specific crops in the Cornell Pest Management Guidelines for Berry Crops.

Additional Resources:

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