where does hogweed grow in the usa
In the U.S., the giant hogweed is typically found in New England states and parts of the Northeast. The plant has also been seen in small patches in the Pacific Northwest. It grows up to 15 feet high, with a purple-tinged stem and sprays of white blossoms a foot or more across. Triggered by light, a toxin in hogweed sap attacks human skin, causing swelling, burns, blisters and permanent, purplish scars.
In addition to Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont, the plant has been found in Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Maryland, Ohio, Washington and Oregon, according the USDA, which includes the giant hogweed on or near the top of its 150-item Federal Noxious Weeds list.