Cow parsnip - Heracleum sphondylium (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Control)

Cow parsnip

Also known as: Common hogweed, Keck

Cow parsnip (Heracleum sphondylium) is a species of flowering perennial herb related to parsley and fennel. Its specific epithet, "sphondylium," means "vertebrate," and references its segmented appearance. This species produces extremely large amounts of nectar and thus attracts many bees.

Scientific classification

Species

Cow parsnip (Heracleum sphondylium)

Carrots, ivies and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial, Biennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

Brown, Green, White, Cream

Fruit Color

White, Pink, Green

Flower Color

Green, White

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Cow parsnip

Distribution of Cow parsnip

Distribution Map

Cow parsnip is originally native to a broad region comprising parts of Eurasia and has now become widespread throughout temperate zones. Its presence as an introduced species has been recorded in regions including eastern Europe, the Caribbean, some parts of North Asia, the far North Atlantic, and the South Pacific.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Moist grassland and ditches, by hedges and in woods

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Power, strength and potency

Interesting Facts

Cow parsnip is used as a vegetable or a versatile wild spice. However, cow parsnip has a poisonous counterpart named giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum), which contains toxic sap that can cause severe skin irritation in humans. Although many Heracleum species are similar, giant hogweed is quite taller than others, growing even 4 m tall.

Name Story

Common hogweed: Several plants of the genus Heracleum in the carrot family, including Heracleum sphondylium, are often called hogweed. The name comes from the fact that these plants are a food source for hogs. They can even graze the hogweed species that contain toxic sap.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Toxicity

Cow parsnip causes painful skin irritations and gastrointestinal distress if ingested in large amounts. Cats and dogs are at risk of poisoning from consuming its leaves, showing symptoms like gastrointestinal upset, drooling, and oral irritation. Prompt veterinary care is essential for pets that ingest this plant.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Weed Control

Cow parsnip is a biennial plant native to Eurasia and has become an invasive naturalized weed in the eastern half of North America. The large, shrub-like plant has leaves measuring 1.5 m wide and 3 m long. Its large leaves easily shade native plants from the sunlight they need to thrive. But the plant's large leaves aren't the only reason it's considered invasive: its large seeds can spread easily in the fall, producing new plants in the spring. A spreading root system also leaches nutrients from the ground that native plants need to survive. Furthermore, cow parsnip is also a toxic plant that can cause severe skin burns.

How to Control It

The best season for removal of Heracleum sphondylium (Cow parsnip) is late spring to early summer, when the plant's growth is most vigorous but before it has had a chance to flower and produce seeds. Here are the organic or interesting methods you can use to control this plant:

Hand Pulling: Wearing protective gloves and clothing to prevent skin irritation, grasp cow parsnip at the base of the stem and pull upward to remove the whole plant. Be sure to remove the entire root to prevent regrowth.
Mowing: Regular mowing can help suppress cow parsnip. Mow as low as possible without damaging desirable plants. Make sure to mow before the plant has a chance to seed to prevent further spread.
Smothering: Cover the area with a thick layer of mulch, cardboard, or a tarp to block sunlight and smother cow parsnip. Leave the cover in place for at least one growing season to ensure the plant is dead.
Grazing: Some types of livestock, such as goats, enjoy eating cow parsnip and can help control its growth. Monitor the livestock to ensure they're not overgrazing the area and damaging other plants.
Planting Competitive Species: Plant species that can compete with cow parsnip for resources. Choose fast-growing native species that can outcompete Cow parsnip.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Cow parsnip

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from damp meadows and riversides, cow parsnip prefers consistent soil moisture and thrives with weekly watering. It efficiently manages rainwater in outdoor settings, making it suitable for temperate climates with rainfall patterns that align with its natural requirements.

Propagation: Cow parsnip is propagated by sowing in early Spring, exhibiting moderate difficulty. Success is indicated by robust green seedlings. For optimal growth, ensure proper spacing and use well-draining soil.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Cow parsnip

Distribution of Cow parsnip

Culture

Toxicity

Weed Control

Care Guide for Cow parsnip

PEOPLE ALSO ASK