Land Plants - native

Cow Parsnip (Heracleum maximum) on Jun 17, 2019

Submitter does not have a specimen

Description of specimen

Not sure if we have cow parsnip or Hogweed. The plants are over 5 1/2 feet. They are numerous probably over 100 plants. We would like to clear it but are unsure if it's safe to do.

Commentary

Hello and thank you for your report! Apologies that we didn't reply in a timely manner. You are correct that this is cow parsnip, but it makes sense to check as there are many similarities to giant hogweed. Giant hogweed is often even taller (7-14') with much larger leaves. The stems are often purple-spotted with stiff white hairs. There are great photos here that compares with other species, https://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/72766.html.

Best,
Lindsey

Lindsey Wise
Aug. 6, 2020, 6:39 a.m.