Giant hogweed: Environment Agency again asks for help
Findings of the invasive neophyte should be reported
This year, the City of Chemnitz Environmental Agency is once again asking citizens to help combat so-called invasive neophytes. These are immigrant or introduced plant species that are spreading rapidly and displacing native plants. One particularly problematic plant is the giant hogweed.
Citizens are therefore called upon to report findings of giant hogweed by email to the Lower Nature Conservation Authority at umweltamt.naturschutz(at)stadt-chemnitz.de. It is important to indicate the location and number of plants, if possible with a photo. In exceptional cases, reports can also be made by telephone on 0371 488-3602 or -03 or by dialling the authority number 115.
The giant bear moth originates from the Caucasus. The plant grows up to four metres high and produces tens of thousands of seeds. It spreads quickly as a result. Giant hogweed is also harmful to health: the plant sap can cause severe skin burns, especially in sunlight, particularly in children.
The very large, sometimes more than one metre wide, strongly incised leaves are unmistakable, with each partial leaf and each toothing ending in a very typical leaf tip. The striking, pungent, spicy odour of the sap is also unmistakable.
According to EU regulations, giant hogweed must be eradicated. The property owners are primarily responsible for this. They will receive a written notification from the Environmental Agency if they become aware of any occurrences, informing them of the correct and safe removal procedure.
Important: The plants - especially flowers, seeds and roots - must be completely removed and disposed of via the neophyte container at the Weißer Weg recycling centre.