Etymology: Heracleum: named for Hercules, who was supposed to have used it first for medicine
Plants: erect, biennial/perennial, 10'-15' tall forb; stems hollow, dark reddish-purple, hairy, each of the hairs surrounded by a purplish raised node; tuberous roots
Leaves: deeply palmately cut, up to 5' wide, underside with coarse hairs, stalk spotted
Flowers: white, 5-parted; inflorescence a flat, many-branched umbel up to 20" wide; blooms May-July
Hazardous: Careful, this plant is hazardous!
Invasiveness: Prohibited Invasive - Eradicate!
Conservation Status: Introduced - locally established; potentially invasive

WIS DNR-Bureau of Endangered Resources: Detailed information on Wisconsin invasive species including decription, habitats, control methods USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc. USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc. Massachusetts Introduced Pest Outreach Project: Photographs, Information, control, and links