Giant Hogweed Taken at Doonfoot on 7th July 2019 using Panasonic Lumix LX5 in macro mode.   Taken at Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow on 26th June 2008 using Nikon D40X with Nikon 300 mm zoom lens. Giant Hogweed. Species: Order: Family: Habit: AKA: Heracleum mantegazzianum. Apiales. Apiaceae.. Biennial. Cartwheel-flower,giant cow parsnip,hogsbane, giant cow parsley Habitat: Blooms: Height: Feature: Grassy banks, woods, roadsides. April-September. Up to 5 mts. The scientific name derives from the Greek hero Heracles (Roman: Hercules) Native of the Caucusus, it is naturalised in Western Europe. It contains a volatile substance which sensitises the skin and may cause blistering especially during warm weather. The sap of giant hogweed causes phytophotodermatitis in humans, resulting in blisters, long-lasting scars, and, if it comes in contact with eyes,blindness.