Toxic plant invades northern Europe’s largest scout camp

The invasive wild parsnip has spread across the grounds of Spejdernes Lejr, northern Europe’s largest scout camp, currently hosting 30,000 participants in Hedeland Nature Park near Roskilde.

Wild parsnip contains the toxin furocoumarin, which reacts to sunlight and can cause blisters and burns on exposed skin. Organisers have cordoned off the densest patches with fencing and posted warning signs around the site.

“We’ve informed participants through our camp app and placed signs so people can identify the plant,” said Jack Starche, a volunteer organiser.

Sunny weather increases the risk of reactions, but cloudier conditions this year may limit incidents. No serious cases have been reported so far.

Wild parsnip, a relative of giant hogweed, blooms with small yellow flowers in June and July and thrives along roadsides and open grasslands.