Picture: NEWQUEST A MAP showing the hotspots of a highly toxic plant which can cause severe burning and temporary blindness has been released. Dozens of areas known for having issues with Giant Hogweed have been identified across the North East and North Yorkshire. The dangerous plant, which can reach heights of more than 12ft if not removed, is now in season where it is expected to thrive and spread. Officially known as Heracleum mantegazzianum, the toxic plant is often found in woodland, river banks, nature reserves, parks - and even domestic gardens and allotments. According to a map, parts of County Durham, Darlington and Teesside have reported suffering from the problem plant.