Giant Hogweed

There has been a possible Giant hogweed sighting in Kilreen Park. The plant was found near the south entrance of the park against the fence near Stanton road). The city has already been notified to remove the plant.

Giant hogweed is toxic and can cause irritation and inflammation of the skin and can damage eyes. Do not attempt to remove Giant hogweed yourself. If you suspect that you have found Giant hogweed contact either a professional exterminator (to remove the plant from your property) or the city of Ottawa to examine and remove the plant from public spaces.

If you are exposed to Giant hogweed's toxic sap then wash your skin well with soap and water. Keep any affected areas out of the sun because the sap will increase photosensitivity and your risk of sunburn. See a doctor if you develop photo dermatitis (inflammation after exposure to sunlight). If you get sap in your eye, flush your eye with water and see a doctor immediately.

Resources:

Government of Ontario. (2019). Giant hogweed. https://www.ontario.ca/page/giant-hogweed

City of Ottawa. (2020). Invasive species. https://ottawa.ca/en/living-ottawa/environment/trees-plants-and-forests/plants/invasive-species

Service Ottawa. (2020). Wild Parsnip, Poison Ivy or Giant Hogweed in ditches (Self Service Reporting Form). https://so311.serviceottawa.ca/selfserve/?reqId=2000154&lang=en&form=Road_Maint_Ditches.Weeds

National Capital Commission (NCC). (2017). Harmful Plants in the Capital. https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/blog/harmful-plants-in-the-capital