I just found this link from a previous post here on Gardenstew http://www.ipm.msu.edu/pdf/hogweed.pdf I really starting to think this IS Hogweed!!
That's something you shouldn't touch isn't it? An episode of Rosemary and Thyme, the first one in fact, uses Giant Hogweed as a murder weapon when it is added to skin cream.
I have never heard of hogweed before. That does not sound like a very nice plant to have around. I sure hope we do not have that over here.
It does look something like it, call your local county extension office and see if they have someone who can confirm the ID and get rid of it for you.
It is! We have it coming up here from time to time. Those purple spots and hairy stems give it away. I'd pull it up but use rubber gloves and wear long sleeves tucked into the gloves. DON'T put it on the compost pile. I bag them in garbage bags and put them in the garbage when I find them. Then throw away the gloves and thoroughly wash the clothes that may have touched it. This is Giant Hogweed damage.
Netty I don't like to think of you tackling this highly toxic weed on your own. Please get someone from your local authority to come and deal with it for you. Here we have men in full protective gear who come and get rid of giant hogweed and even they are ultra careful around it.
My gosh, I've never heard of such a plant. Netty, be careful. That sounds terribly toxic. I hope you can get someone to remove it for you.
Luckily, this plant is only about 14 inches tall so far. I think I might try spraying it with some Roundup.
WOW! What a nasty plant. That is truly a weed, and I don't consider many plants weeds. Netty that was a great link. I didn't know it was in my state.
