Plants to avoid when hiking or camping in Canada

Giant Hogweed

Giant hogweed is a plant that originated in Europe, but can now frequently be found along roadsides and stream banks in Ontario. “It grows to heights of 2-5 metres, with purple coloured stalks that are often spotted, with course, jagged leaves,” notes Dan Truesdale, an Outdoor recreation expert and garden enthusiast at Mountain Equipment Co-op. He notes that giant hogweed is a phototoxic plant that can cause long-lasting purple and ... more 

Giant Hogweed

Giant hogweed is a plant that originated in Europe, but can now frequently be found along roadsides and stream banks in Ontario. “It grows to heights of 2-5 metres, with purple coloured stalks that are often spotted, with course, jagged leaves,” notes Dan Truesdale, an Outdoor recreation expert and garden enthusiast at Mountain Equipment Co-op. He notes that giant hogweed is a phototoxic plant that can cause long-lasting purple and black scars. “And if it comes in contact with the eyes, it can also cause temporary or permanent blindness.” less