Hogweed

Hogweed, sometimes called cow parsnip, is a tough, bristly perennial which has an unpleasant smell when rubbed between the fingers. The stems and leaves are hairy.

The leaves are divided into three with each leaflet divided into three or five segments.

The flowers are large (up to 20 cms across), white (sometimes reddish) 'umbels' comprised of groups of tiny florets.

Hogweed grows in woodlands, roadsides and grassy places. It derives its name because it was used as pig food in the past.