The warnings describe an invasive alien that will cause horrible burns to the skin of any human that comes in contact with it. We are told to observe but keep our distance, and report any sightings to the authorities – the invader is beautiful but vicious.
Another Russian spy plot? The story line for a new science fiction/horror flick? No, although the warnings read as if they could be about something from some other solar system. In this case, the subject is not a malevolent life form from a distant planet, but an attractive plant that might make an interesting addition to a flower garden.
In fact, that is probably how giant hogweed, which has been identied in Stratford in the TJ Dolan natural area, ended up in Canada. Decades ago, someone brought it here as a garden ornamental from Asia, where it originated, or Europe. Giant hogweed has been described as looking like wild carrot on steroids, with dinner-plate sized flower heads, glossy serrated leaves, and purplish stems. It can grow several metres in height.
The problem is that like a lot of alien species it did not have the decency to remain where it was wanted. Outside its natural environment and any natural controls, it spread quickly. One giant hogweed plant can produce tens of thousands of seeds in a season, and if they get into a waterway, the resulting infestation can take years and great effort to eradicate. Then, of course, there is the problem of the plant being toxic. If the sap gets on the skin – or worse, in the eyes - exposure to sunlight causes horrible burns that can take months to heal and result in purplish or blackened scars.
The recent discovery of giant hogweed in Toronto triggered a rash of warnings about it. One would think from the tone of the news stories that the plant had never been seen before in this country, but unfortunately it has become quite familiar to people around here over the past decade or more.
So have other alien species. Plants including purple loosestrife and phragmites have been choking out native species along our waterways and in our marshes. Then there is the zebra mussel. The small clam-like creature is back in the news because it appears to have triggered an algae problem in the Goderich area. Asian carp, African bees, Himalayan balsam - the list of alien invaders is growing longer by the day.
Summer is when a lot of people travel outside the country. Some of us might be tempted to sneak a few plant seeds, a root or even an animal product back into Canada from some exotic vacation spot. Bring back pleasant memories or even a picture or two, but give careful thought to giant hogweed before smuggling a few seeds for the flower garden.
–Wingham Advance-Times
