In the US, found a hazardous plant that looks like a weed

Authorities have announced the presence in Virginia of a dangerous invasive plant that can cause burns and blindness.

Фото: Depositphotos

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services confirmed Tuesday that giant hogweed, a toxic weed that can grow up to 15 feet (4,57 m) tall and is similar to the less dangerous cow parsnip, was identified at a private home in Clark County. . Virginia Department of Transportation officials reported on it earlier this month.

According to the State of New York State Department of Environmental Protection, exposure to the sap of a giant plant combined with sunlight and moisture causes severe irritation of the skin and eyes, bloating, scarring and even blindness.

Scientists, however, urge Virginians to remain calm. According to researchers, the weed was planted intentionally by a previous homeowner and is unlikely to spread.

“It's a dangerous plant, but I'm not too worried about it. This appears to be an isolated incident,” Michael Flesner, assistant professor and weed science specialist at Virginia Tech.

While the situation in Virginia appears to be under control, hogweed, which is native to Asia and was brought to the U.S. in 1917, can be found in quite a few East Coast states—it's especially common in New York.

People who think they may have discovered the giant hogweed, which is on the list of harmful weeds of the United States Department of Agriculture, should notify local environmental authorities who can remove it with protective equipment.

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