Indiana officials say a noxious plant that can cause severe irritation if it comes into contact with skin or even blindness if it comes into contact with eyes has been found in two northern Indiana counties.

WISH-TV reports the state Department of Natural Resources is warning Indiana residents to stay away from the "giant hogweed." It has been found St. Joseph and Kosciusko (kahs-ee-AHS'-koh) counties.

DNR Division of Entomology & Plant Pathology Director Philip Marshall says the agency is trying to get rid of the plant. He says sap from the plant contains toxins that cause a skin reaction to ultraviolet rays.

The invasive species is recognizable by its height and white flowers.