Hogweed
heracleum sphondylium
Also known as: ["Common Hogweed","Cow Parsnip"]
Overview
A tall, herbaceous plant with large, divided leaves and umbels of white flowers, native to Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Heracleum |
| Botanical Name: | Heracleum sphondylium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed in partial shade, or container with adequate space for root growth
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown indoors in very dry conditions
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or dappled sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on outdoor vs. indoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun in winter.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
fertile, moist, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay; maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or division; stem cuttings can also be used but are less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Provide warmth and humidity.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or a mix of peat and perlite for cuttings.
Hormone
Optional for cuttings; rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Seeds may take 3–4 weeks to germinate; cuttings typically root in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut back leggy stems to a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased foliage.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Provide frost protection; move indoors in freezing temperatures; ensure good air circulation.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, ingestion of Heracleum sphondylium by cats can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress. The plant's furanocoumarins may irritate the digestive tract, causing temporary discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Heracleum sphondylium can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to the presence of furanocoumarins and other secondary metabolites. The effects are generally not life-threatening but may cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicHeracleum sphondylium contains furanocoumarins, which can cause photodermatitis upon contact with skin followed by exposure to ultraviolet light. The reaction leads to inflammation, blistering, and potential long-term skin sensitivity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched and exposed to sunlight
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hogweed safe to touch?
A: Contact with the sap can cause photodermatitis, so it is advisable to wear gloves when handling.
Q: Does Hogweed attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Hogweed be grown in shade?
A: Yes, it tolerates partial shade and can thrive in such conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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