The hogweed is packed with sap that causes phytophotodermatitis — meaning it stops the skin’s ability to protect itself from the sun’s harmful rays. In extreme cases, exposure can result in third-degree burns and even blindness. And the effects can last months, or even years. //

Giant hogweed is a biennial or perennial herb in the carrot family (Apiaceae) which can grow to 14 feet or more. Its hollow, ridged stems grow 2-4 inches in diameter and have dark reddish-purple blotches. Its large compound leaves can grow up to 5 feet wide. Its white flower heads can grow up to 2 1/2 feet in diameter.

Contrary to its name, Guelder rose is not a rose. Formerly it was a member of the honeysuckle family (Caprifoliaceae) but has recently been moved to a new family called Adoxa… you’ve got to love those crazy botanists and there new fangled genetic sequencing.

The Woodland Trust have a good description of Guelder rose here .

And it is also technically poisonous… if the fruits are eaten raw. But cooked and you’ll be experiencing something few folk have ever bothered tasting.

The berries when crushed have a strange smell, certainly one that doesn’t immediately incline you to befriend this plant. And when cooked they smell of musty old socks.

If you dab a drop of the raw juice on your tongue, you might recoil in disgust as the bitterness hits you.

But as I like to say to folk on my courses “The plant is never the problem, you are”. //

The fruits are antimicrobial and antibacterial. It contains large amounts of quercetin, a flavonoid which plays an important role in fighting free radical damage, as well as being great as an anti-inflammatory. Needless to say bigPharma is actively researching the fruits for new medicines.

That all aside… the fruits rock when prepared properly.