Also known as Bear's Breech · Common Cow Parsnip · Common Eltrot
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium) is a tall, herbaceous perennial plant with large, compound leaves and umbrella-shaped clusters of small white or pinkish flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Thrives in sunny locations but can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates where it can prevent scorching.
Moderate to High
75% intensity
Prefers consistent moisture, especially in drier periods. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings in cooler months.
Adaptable
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures and is generally frost-hardy once established. Protect young plants from extreme cold.
Low
25% intensity
Requires minimal feeding. A light application of balanced fertilizer or compost in spring is usually sufficient.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains furanocoumarins, which can cause phytophotodermatitis (a skin reaction triggered by sunlight after contact with the plant).
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Hogweed prefers ample moisture for optimal growth.
Reduce watering in winter, allowing the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Remove spent flower stalks after flowering to prevent self-seeding and encourage a tidier appearance. Cut back any dead or damaged foliage in late autumn or early spring.
Pruning is generally minimal, focusing on maintenance rather than shaping.
Easily grown from seed sown in autumn or early spring. Seeds may benefit from a period of cold stratification. Division of established clumps in spring or autumn is also an effective method for propagation.
Space divisions appropriately.
As a large perennial, repotting is infrequent and usually only necessary for container-grown plants that have become root-bound. This is best done in early spring before new growth begins.
Ensure the new pot is significantly larger and provides excellent drainage.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Heracleum |
| Species | Heracleum sphondylium |
Similar in genus Heracleum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
