giant hogweed

American  

noun

1. a tall plant, Heracleum mantegazzianum, of the parsley family, native to Russia and now naturalized in the U.S., having very large leaves and broad, white flower heads somewhat resembling Queen Anne's lace: can cause an allergic rash when touched by susceptible persons.

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giant hogweed British  

noun

1. Also called: cartwheel flower.  an umbelliferous garden escape, Heracleum mantegazzianum, a tall species of cow parsley that grows up to 3 1/ 2 metres (10 ft) and whose irritant hairs and sap can cause a severe reaction if handled

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

giant hogweed

Government advice around contact with giant hogweed is to cover any affected skin immediately, wash with cold water and avoid exposure in the sun.

From BBC ● Jul. 28, 2026

There are more than 2,500 sites across Northern Ireland, external where giant hogweed has been recorded and confirmed.

From BBC ● Jul. 28, 2026

The giant hogweed - Heracleum mantegazzianum - is not to be messed with, says Prof Barr.

From BBC ● Jul. 10, 2023

Among other new eight-letter words, the kind that help players clear their seven-tile racks for 50 extra points: hogsbane, more commonly known as giant hogweed.

From Seattle Times ● Nov. 16, 2022

Originally from the mountains of Central Asia, giant hogweed made its debut in New York about 100 years ago as a dramatic ornamental plant.

From Washington Post ● Jun. 10, 2013