honeybees and umbellifers

[beecology]

A few observations of late whilst at work - honey bees going mad for angelica and also giant hogweed.

I wonder if the latter produces honey safe to eat or if any toxins are present in nectar?

 

[Swarm]

A few observations of late whilst at work - honey bees going mad for angelica and also giant hogweed.

I wonder if the latter produces honey safe to eat or if any toxins are present in nectar?

Many plants have toxic qualities but that does not necessarily transfer to honey produced.

 

[mintmoth]

According to the Cornell U Extension site giant hogweed was introduced to the United States and Canada in the early 1900s as an ornamental, for use in beekeeping and for the use of its seeds as a spice. - See more at: http://warren.cce.cornell.edu/natural-resources/invasive-plants/giant-hogweed#sthash.4XprLuQd.dpuf

Apparently French beekeepers introduced it to France in the 19th C for the sweet and unique tasting honey produced by the nectar.