A woman has raised the alarm about a giant plant in a neighborhood park and urged the public to avoid the deceptively dangerous plant that can cause severe burns and permanent skin damage.
In a stark warning about the dangers of the harmless-looking but dangerous plant, the woman warned of the giant delicacy, which can cause excruciating burning and blistering of the skin, potentially leading to permanent damage.
A close relative of cow parsley, known for its rapid summer growth, giant parsley is a dangerous invader, unlike its harmless cousin. Cow parsley is celebrated for its slightly spicy flavor and medicinal benefits, while giant weed is a poisonous impostor that poses a serious threat because it resembles an oversized version of a harmless herb.
A TikTok influencer has taken to the platform with an important “public service announcement” aimed at protecting UK residents from the dangers of giant grass. Known by her handle @britofbaking, she warns: “It’s a very dangerous plant. It’s invasive.”
In his video, he reveals the alarming ease of coming into contact with the plant in his local park, warning: “It really hurts your hand and you end up with permanent damage because the sap causes photosensitivity, which the Royal Horticultural Society [RHS] to warn you.”
In a serious warning, one social media user warned that the plant “looks like other plants” and advised: “If you touch it, wash off the sap and try to get it as clean as possible.”
The caption continued: “It’s a poisonous invasive species, and if the sap gets on your or your pet’s skin, it will cause permanent damage. The sap will impair your skin’s ability to protect itself from UV light for up to seven years. Blisters and be very painful.”
Giant hogweed is part of the carrot family and can grow up to 14 feet tall. The RHS explains: “While giant grass is an impressive sight when fully grown, it is invasive and potentially harmful. The chemicals in the gall are a fluid that circulates in the plant’s vascular system in the same way that blood travels through our veins.
“Phloem sap transports the sugars produced by photosynthesis in the leaves down to the roots and other storage organs, as well as transports minerals and hormones. The xylem sap is watery and transports nutrients absorbed from the roots upwards to the rest of the plant.
“Some plants ooze sap from wounds or cuts, and this is called bleeding. The sap can cause photodermatitis, or photosensitivity, causing the skin to become very sensitive to sunlight and lead to blistering, pigmentation, and long-term scarring.”
If you happen to brush against a giant food, it is recommended to wash the area thoroughly and immediately. Then seek medical attention and avoid sunlight for several days.
