engleski

New localities of Heracleum mantegazzianum Sommier et Levier (Apiaceae) in Croatia and control measures taken

The species Heracleum mantegazzianum Sommier et Levier (Apiaceae) originates from western Caucasus, but today it is widely distributed in Europe due to intentional introductions as ornamental plant and subsequent unintentional spread. In numerous western, northern and central European countries it is considered invasive alien species. Its main negative impact concerns human health, as it produces phytotoxic sap which causes skin burnings when exposed to UV light. In Croatia it was first recorded in 2009 near Žabnik (Međimurje County), but afterwards it has not been found on this locality again. On 16th July 2014 the species was noted in Radoboj (Krapina-Zagorje County), on two localities approximately 300 m apart. On the first locality it was growing in ruderal and on the second in marshland vegetation. Populations consisted of around 50 individuals in total. Its exact introduction pathway is not known, but unintentional introduction is presumed. The species is tall (up to 5 m) monocarpic perennial which produces large number of seeds, establishing short-term persistent soil seed-bank. In order to disable their dispersal and the species’ spread, the localities were revisited on 1st August 2014, extent of population was mapped and control measures were taken. They included manual elimination of all fructifying umbels and their safe disposal. These measures, including possible eradication of all individuals, should be conducted during following years.

giant hogweed; invasive alien species; mechanical control; prevention of spread

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