Giant hogweed labeled UK's most dangerous plant - how to spot it in your garden

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Giant hogweed is an invasive plant that can cause severe burns and blistering. The invasive plant has made headlines as it has left a four-year-old hospitalised with second degree burns.

With dangerous sap, people may be concerned about the plant and its toxic effects. Those who want to keep away from Britain's 'most dangerous plant' will first have to get an understanding of what it looks like, as well as its dangers, says the Mirror.

Here are all the key facts around giant hogweed, including where you may find it and what you can do if you come into contact with its harmful sap.Giant hogweed is an herb related to carrots, cilantro, and parsley, which grows naturally in the Caucasus Mountains, stretching between the Black and Caspian Seas in south west Asia.Due to its large size and delicate-looking white flowers, the plant was first introduced to the United States for decorative purposes.Despite its attractive appearance, giant hogweeds soon became an invasive and dangerous plant species, which is harmful to both humans and the natural habitat.Giant hogweed isn't dangerous as long as you don't touch its sap.

The sap inside the stalks contains a toxic chemical called furanocoumarin, which is what causes burns.When the sap comes into contact with our skin, it causes a reaction called phytophotodermatitis, which damages your DNA and changes the way your skin protects itself from UV light.This means your skin isn't able to protect itself properly from the sun, so if exposed to sunlight your skin will develop severe burns.The chemical reaction can happen within 15 minutes of your skin coming into contact with the sap, with redness and blisters typically developing 48 hours after exposure.The longer the sap remains on the