A dangerous plant has been spotted near Poznań, prompting city guards from Murowana Goślina to issue a warning on social media. The plant in question is Barszcz Sosnowski (Sosnowski’s hogweed), known for its aggressive and harmful nature.
City guards have reported the first sightings and close encounters resulting in burns. “As every year, this very expansive and dangerous plant appears. We are talking about Barszcz Sosnowski, which also occurs in our commune. Due to the fact that we already have the first reports about the appearance of the plant as well as about close encounters with it and burns,” they shared.
Citizens are advised to exercise extreme caution, especially during walks through fields, meadows, and near water. The plant poses a danger even from a distance. If you spot this plant, report it to the Department of Municipal Economy and Environmental Protection and the City Guard immediately.
Barszcz Sosnowski belongs to the celery family and can grow up to 4 meters tall. It is identifiable by its green upper stems with purple spots on the lower part, wide leaves with sharp tips, and large canopies of white flowers. Contact with this plant can result in severe second and third-degree burns. The burns become severe upon exposure to sunlight, making immediate medical attention necessary if blisters form. It is crucial not to pierce these blisters to avoid complications. Burn scars from this plant can remain for life. Stay vigilant and safe, and report any sightings of this hazardous plant to the appropriate authorities.
