Hogweed is not the same as cow parsley. While they are in the same family, they have distinct differences in appearance and flowering times.
Hogweed, scientifically known as Heracleum mantegazzianum, is a tall plant with thick, bristly stems that are often purple-blotched. It can reach heights of up to 14 feet (4.2 meters), making it quite imposing in the garden or landscape. The leaves of hogweed are large and deeply lobed, giving them a coarse and rugged appearance. The plant’s flowers are arranged in large, flat-topped clusters known as umbels, and they typically bloom in late June and July.
On the other hand, cow parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris) has much finer foliage that is fern-like in appearance. The leaves are lacy and delicate, giving the plant a more graceful and airy look. Cow parsley generally flowers from April to June, earlier than hogweed. Its flowers are arranged in umbels as well, but they are smaller and more dainty compared to hogweed.
I have encountered both hogweed and cow parsley in my own gardening experiences, and their differences are quite noticeable. Hogweed stands out with its towering height and robust stems, while cow parsley has a more delicate and elegant presence. It’s important to be able to distinguish between the two, especially if you come across hogweed in the wild, as it can cause skin irritation and burns when touched due to its sap containing toxic chemicals.
To summarize the differences between hogweed and cow parsley:
Hogweed:
– Tall plant, reaching heights of up to 14 feet (4.2 meters)
– Thick, bristly stems with purple blotches
– Large, coarse leaves that are deeply lobed
– Flowers in late June and July
– Can cause skin irritation and burns
Cow Parsley:
– Smaller plant with fern-like, lacy foliage
– Graceful and airy appearance
– Flowers from April to June
– Smaller, dainty flowers
– No known skin irritations or toxicity concerns
Hogweed and cow parsley are not the same plant. They differ in their overall appearance, foliage, flowering times, and potential risks associated with hogweed. It is important to be able to recognize these differences to avoid any potential health hazards and to properly identify these plants in the garden or landscape.
