The Heracleum mantegazzianum, better known as ‘giant hogweed,’ can cause serious harm to the body. If touched it causes burning and inflammation of the skin.

The Department of Environmental Conservation say the plant can burn, scar, and even blind you. It produces a toxin that is ‘phototoxic,’ in that it releases the poison when it comes in contact with sunlight.  The light-sensitive skin reaction causes dark painful blisters that form within 48 hours, and result in scars that can last anywhere from a few months to six years. Touching giant hogweed can also cause long-term sunlight sensitivity, and blindness if sap gets into a person's eye.

It can grow up to 14 feet tall and is surprisingly pretty, with thick leaves stretching five feet wide and large clusters of white flowers gracing the top of the plant in an umbrella pattern. Its stems are green with purple blotches and white hairs.

According to the DEC, the toxic plant grows in many states in the United States. It can also be found in southern Canada and is an invasive species in Germany, France, and Belgium. See the image below to learn how to identify it:

Here are some steps to take if you are ever come in contact with this plant. A toxic reaction can begin as soon as 15 minutes after contact. 

First, you will need to remove the sap as quickly as possible if it gets on your hands. Use paper towel or a cloth towel do to so without rubbing. Afterwards, wash the infected area with soap and rinse with water.

Second, apply sunscreen to the affected areas since this can prevent further reactions if you're stuck outside and try to avoid sunlight from hitting the infected area for a minimum of two days. If you happen to touch your eyes, rinse thoroughly with water and immediately wear sunglasses.

Compresses soaked in an aluminum acetate mixture - available at pharmacies - can provide relief for skin irritations and call a doctor os go to the hospital if you're experiencing a severe reaction.