Jun 12, 2019
Cllr Alastair Majury on Dunblane’s Giant Hogweed
It is the time of the year for people to report sightings of Giant Hogweed, I have received reports of Giant Hogweed in the Laighhills and also along the B8033 road.
The Council have now treated both sites. The Laighhills just today (12th June) — “The Hogweed around the paths at Laighills has now had an application of herbicide. Should start to show dieback by next week.”
The B8033 site was treated in May — “The Hogweed in this area was sprayed with glyphosate last week. It will take a couple of weeks to take effect in this weather.”
But what is Giant Hogweed? From Non Native Species.
Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) contains toxic sap that can cause severe burns.
At 20ft tall with dinner table sized leaves Giant Hogweed is an impressive plant that was once planted in gardens. However, it is highly invasive and has spread throughout the whole of Great Britain, primarily favouring river banks but also other areas such as parks, cemeteries and wasteland.
The sap of Giant Hogweed contains toxic chemicals known as furanocoumarins. When these come into contact with the skin, and in the presence of sunlight, they cause a condition called phyto-photodermatitis: a reddening of the skin, often followed by severe burns and blistering. The burns can last for several months and even once they have died down the skin can remain sensitive to light for many years.
Every year there are press articles about gardeners, contractors, ramblers, children and others that have been hurt by this plant.
Alastair Majury resides locally in the historic Scottish city of Dunblane, and is a Senior Regulatory Business Analyst working across the country. Alastair Majury is also a volunteer officer at the local Boys’ Brigade company, a charity which focuses on enriching the lives of children and young people, and building a stronger community. Alastair Majury also serves on the local council (Stirling Council) as Councillor Alastair Majury where he represents the ward of Dunblane and Bridge of Allan, topping the poll.
