Heracleum sphondylium
hogweed
The hogweed is more diminutive than its infamous cousin, giant hogweed and doesn't carry the same health warnings. Although it may reach 2m in height, it's generally much shorter at 1m. Stems are ridged and hollow, leaves hairy with broad, pinnate lobes. Off-white umbels are borne from midsummer to early autumn. It may be a biennial or monocarpic perennial.
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | White | Green | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
Exposure
Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- TOXIC to skin with sunlight
- Genus
Heraclium can be biennial or perennial herbs and include species such as Giant Hogweed, Fennel, Cow Parsley and Ground Elder.
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Naturally grows in grassy places of rough grazing, hedgerows and roadsides.
Propagation
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Wildflower meadow
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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