A stunning bloom will make you want to stop and smell the roses, but be careful

The giant hogweed is an invasive plant that grows up to 15 feet tall and can be identified by its stem with purple splotches

Heracleum mantegazzianum, commonly known as giant hogweed, is an ornamentally introduced, toxic species in the Apiaceae family

Fun facts: Giant hogweed can reach up to 15 feet tall! Its lower leaves grow to 10 feet long and up to 5 feet wide!

Native to the Caucasus Mountains, giant hogweed is now found in British Columbia, Washington and Oregon, as well as eastern North America

It is most commonly seen in riparian areas, open woodlands, and disturbed sites such as old agricultural lands and roadsides

The sap produced by giant hogweed is toxic, causing photodermatitis, leading to skin rashes and blisters when effected skin is exposed to sunlight

If you come in contact with this plant, please be sure to immediately wash your skin with cold water and hide the exposed area from the sun