A large leafy plant that can cause blindness by touching its sap is working its way across New York this summer.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has issued an official warning on their website: "Giant Hogweed. Do Not Touch This Plant!"

Officials are warning residents to beware of infestations of the noxious weed that can grow to over 12 feet tall.

The plants sap can cause:

Blindness

Severe skin and eye irritation

Painful blistering

Permanent scarring

It could also cause red patches which are painless, but that will develop into purple or brown scars that can last for years.

This is the fourth year in a row officials have battled the plants and this year they've set up a hot-line and a Giant Hogweed identification page.