Heracleum sphondylium subsp. ternatum

Heracleum sphondylium subsp. ternatum, commonly known as Hogweed, is a robust perennial herb found in various temperate habitats. Renowned for its large, umbel-shaped white flowers, this subspecies possesses unique morphological traits. While historically utilized in traditional herbalism, it requires careful handling due to its potent, skin-irritating sap.

  • Scientific name: Heracleum sphondylium subsp. ternatum
  • Family: Apiaceae
  • Native range: Europe

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta, falling under the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae. Within the order Apiales, it is classified under the family Apiaceae. Finally, it is identified by the genus Heracleum as the specific subspecies Heracleum sphondylium subsp. ternatum.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Magnoliidae WCVP
Order Apiales WCVP
Family Apiaceae WCVP
Genus Heracleum WCVP

Common Names

This plant, Heracleum sphondylium subsp. ternatum, is known by various regional names across different languages. In English, it is commonly referred to as hogweed or triple hogweed, while in German, it is known as Dreigeteilter Wiesenbärenklau. In French, the plant is called hogweed ou cerfeuil sauvage, and in Spanish, it is identified as perifollo de los prados.
Language Common Name Source

Distribution

This plant is primarily found across the diverse landscapes of Southeastern Europe. Its distribution includes specific populations located within Albania and Bulgaria. It can also be found growing throughout various regions of Greece. Furthermore, the species extends its range into Italy. Finally, this medicinal plant is documented inhabiting the Northwest Balkan Peninsula.

Region Area Source
Southeastern Europe Albania WCVP
Southeastern Europe Bulgaria WCVP
Southeastern Europe Greece WCVP
Southeastern Europe Italy WCVP
Southeastern Europe NW. Balkan Pen. WCVP
Western Asia Türkiye WCVP