GLASGOW locals have been warned to be cautious after giant hogweed – a toxic plant known to cause chemical burns – has been seen cropping up in a local park.
A concerned local took to social media on Monday to warn residents of the city to be cautious of the dangerous plant.
The unnamed Scot had spotted the toxic plant growing in a number of locations in Auldhouse Park, and snapped photos which they then shared to warn other Glaswegians.
The plant poses serious risk to people and animals, and its sap can cause nasty burns if it comes in contact with the skin.
The plant’s sap is phototoxic and can react with sunlight resulting in scarring and painful blistering on the skin.
The concerned local has asked that residents of the area tackle the issue themselves, with claims that Glasgow City Council are “useless” at controlling it.
Experts recommend that protective gloves, glasses and a face covering are worn when working with or around hogweed.
The Royal Horticultural Society recommends that contractors working on managing hogweed are aware of the risks and are competent enough to deal with the plant.
Residents of the area were left furious by the lack of control over the dangerous plant and took to social media to vent their anger.
The warning was posted to social media on Monday with the caption: “PSA: Giant hogweed has photo toxic sap which can cause severe blistering, burns and scarring.
“It’s well established by the basketball court in Auldhouse Park and little sprouts are in the grassy bit.
“Per the Royal Horticultural Society: ‘It poses a serious risk to people who are unaware of its potential for harm.
“’When controlling giant hogweed always wear gloves, cover your arms and legs, and ideally wear a face mask when working on or near it.
“’Cut plant debris, contaminated clothing and tools are potentially hazardous too. Wash any skin that comes in contact with the plant immediately.
“’Ensure that contractors working on your land are aware of the risks and are competent to deal with this weed’.
“Watch yourself, your kids and your dogs.
“Tips to anyone who knows a professional who can do this pro bono as [Glasgsow City Council] are useless at controlling it.”
The post has since received dozens of likes and comments from social media users left concerned by the toxic plant’s sudden appearance.
One user said: “Please actually report it because I know the council are slow and a bit crap, but they’re also not mind readers.”
Another added: “The River Kelvin is covered with Hogweed. Council are useless.”
A third wrote: “Uh… there’s not even a river or anything like that near Auldhouse Park, is there? This stuff is spreading like wildfire this year.”
Another commented: “Yikes. That’s scary. Afraid my pooch would try to munch on it unwittingly.
Speaking today A council spokeswoman said: “Giant Hogweed is a highly invasive plant which spreads by dispersing its seeds. One plant can produce up to 80,000 seeds.
“We apply herbicide to control growth when it is on council-owned land in locations where people might come into contact with it.
“We have a rolling programme to contain it in such locations. The public is advised to stay away from the plants and not to touch them.
“The plant can sometimes be confused with other types of vegetation, but anyone with concerns about suspected giant hogweed in a public place should report the exact location to the council via our website.
“People can also get advice on our webpage www.glasgow.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=20608.
“The Giant Hogweed in Audlhouse Park has been treated by our parks staff.”
