Common hogweed
Also known as
Hogweed, European cow parsnip, Common cow parsnip, Keck
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout Common hogweed
Heracleum sphondylium is a robust biennial to short‑lived perennial of the carrot family (Apiaceae), native across most of Europe and parts of western Asia. Typically 0.5–2 m tall, it has hollow, ridged, often purple‑blotched stems with coarse hairs. The basal leaves are large, pinnate to deeply lobed, and bristly beneath; stem leaves are smaller and clasping. In early to mid‑summer it produces broad, many‑rayed compound umbels (often 10–30 cm across) of white to greenish‑white flowers that attract a wide array of pollinators. Fruits are flattened, winged schizocarps with distinctive oil tubes (vittae). It favors moist, fertile soils in meadows, hedgerows, road verges, riverbanks, and woodland margins. The sap contains furanocoumarins that can cause severe phytophotodermatitis upon skin contact followed by sunlight exposure. Although sometimes foraged traditionally, handling and consumption carry risk and require expert knowledge. It should not be confused with giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum), which is larger and more hazardous.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Common hogweed
Water
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during establishment and active growth. In the ground, deep, infrequent waterings are better than frequent, shallow sprinkles; aim to moisten the top 20–30 cm of soil, then allow the surface to dry slightly. Avoid waterlogging, which can induce root issues. Mulch 5–7 cm to reduce evaporation. In containers (not generally recommended), water when the top 2–3 cm are dry, ensuring free drainage and never leaving the pot standing in a saucer of water.
Light
Best in full sun to partial shade. In cool, maritime climates it thrives in full sun provided the soil remains moist. In hotter or drier regions, give morning sun with light afternoon shade to reduce wilting and leaf scorch. Dense shade reduces flowering and can make stems leggy. Avoid reflective, heat‑intense sites. Maintain even moisture regardless of exposure; adequate water allows successful cultivation in brighter positions without excessive stress.
Nutrients
Common hogweed thrives in nutrient‑rich soils and typically needs little supplemental feeding. Incorporate well‑rotted compost or leaf mold into the planting area in autumn or early spring to boost organic matter and moisture retention. On poor soils, a light application of a balanced, slow‑release fertilizer (e.g., 10‑10‑10) in early spring is sufficient. Avoid heavy nitrogen doses, which encourage lanky growth and lodging. Mulching with composted bark or leaf mold helps maintain fertility and even moisture.
Temperature
Fully hardy across much of temperate Europe and comparable climates (approximately USDA Zones 3–8). Plants tolerate winter cold to at least −25 °C when dormant. Growth is most vigorous in cool to mild conditions (10–24 °C). In prolonged heat (>30 °C), provide soil moisture and some afternoon shade to prevent stress. Frost is not an issue for established plants, but young spring growth can be nipped by late freezes; mulching buffers temperature swings.
