Dangerous plant which can cause third degree burns found in Glasgow's parks

Giant hogweed plant produces sap which causes skin to become more sensitive to UV light, which can lead to extreme burns and even blindness if it enters the eye.

The plant, which can grow to up to 23ft in height, has become a prominent feature on the banks of the River Clyde and has also been spotted across some of the city’s parks, including Glasgow Green and Richmond Park.

The plant’s leaves, stems, roots, flowers and seeds contain toxins which can cause rashes, burns and blisters to appear on the skin.

George Parsonage, from the Glasgow Humane Society, has spent years tackling the invasive species and says it must be controlled.

The 71-year-old said: “It’s where the children are walking and it was in the middle of the park here – it’s everywhere.

“In Glasgow Green, it’s right up at the viewing platform where the children can actually touch it.

“Last week, I found clothing down at the edge of water – we didn’t know if it had been abandoned there or it was dumped – so we had to the phone the police but before we could we had to put ropes down and abseil down the bank to make sure there was no hogweed before the officers went down to look.

“I’m the one working on the riverbank, I’m the one who has to go through it to get to the water – you can’t not come into contact with it.

“It has to be kept under control, it’s really dangerous.”

Dr Gemma Jennings, of the River Clyde Foundation, backs George’s call for it maintained and says more must be done to inform the public of its dangers.

The 32-year-old said: “We will be takings kids to the river and pointing out that hogweed is a danger.

“We have already taken some out and most of the kids don’t know anything about and most of teachers don’t know anything about.

“There has to be more public awareness – it photo sensitises the skin which means you can feel the effects for years.

“There are pesticides that can be used to kill it – it can be done – but it has to be regularly maintained.

“If it is just left it can grow back so it needs to sustained for years and it is better to call in professionals as it is so dangerous.”

The white flower head has up to 50,000 seeds per plant and the seeds are viable for 20 years allowing it travel throughout the country.

Glasgow City Council admit the plant “is a problem” and are attempting to remove the species in areas where it could pose a risk however, the UK government are also attempting to stop the spread of hogweed.

Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is an offence to cause giant hogweed to grow in the wild and anyone who does so could face up to two years in prison or a fine of up to £5,000.

A Glasgow City Council spokeswoman said: “The council will take action where giant hogweed is near sensitive areas such as school grounds or similar play areas, on wildlife sites where habitat quality is under threat, and where it is accessible.”

Earlier this week, ten-year-old Lauren Fuller was left with third degree burns on her hands and spent two days in Queen Elizabeth University Hospital after making a den using hogweed in Loch Lomond while on a fishing trip with her family.

The youngster may also face skin grafts to repair the skin on her hands.

Anyone one who comes into contact with the plant is advised to wash affected skin with soap and water and cover with sun lotion or clothing.