Pyrenean Hogweed
heracleum pyrenaicum
Also known as: ["Pyrenean Cow Parsnip"]
Overview
A tall, herbaceous plant native to the Pyrenees region, known for its large, divided leaves and umbels of small white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Heracleum |
| Botanical Name: | Heracleum pyrenaicum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months during the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate. Remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning in late autumn o
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light shade in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for leaf burn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; use mulch to retain moisture; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler nights and can survive light frosts.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late autumn; use organic options like compost tea for gentle nutrition.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; sterile seed starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Recommended for stem cuttings to improve rooting success.
Timeline
Stem cuttings root in 3–6 weeks; seeds germinate in 2–4 weeks and take several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle, plastic bag or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut flower stalks at the base; trim leggy stems to just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flower stalks to redirect energy to foliage.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged growth; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a clean pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback if exposed to prolonged freezing.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; mulch around the base to insulate roots; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced vigor, especially if combined with drought.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble 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
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Heracleum pyrenaicum if ingested, leading to gastrointestinal and potential systemic effects due to furanocoumarins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Heracleum pyrenaicum by dogs can cause gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity due to the presence of furanocoumarins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
ToxicHeracleum pyrenaicum contains furanocoumarins, which can cause severe photodermatitis upon contact with skin followed by exposure to sunlight. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Heracleum pyrenaicum toxic to humans?
A: It is mildly toxic, particularly if skin contact occurs with the sap followed by exposure to sunlight, which can cause photodermatitis.
Q: How tall does Heracleum pyrenaicum grow?
A: It typically grows to heights of 1.5 to 2 meters.
Q: Does Heracleum pyrenaicum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its abundant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
