Experts say you should avoid seeing these plants if you see them.
If you touch either of them, they could burn you.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation said in a Facebook post that skin irritation, burning and scarring can be caused by the combined effects of giant hogweed and wild parsnip.
The department advised against touching the plants.
Both plants can be found in other states and regions at this time of year. This is what to know.
The plant with white flowers is found in New England, the Mid-Atlantic Region and the Northwest.
The plant was brought to the US as an ornamental garden plant in the early 20th century. In forests, fields and yards it grows.
The department said that giant hogweed plants flower in June-July and set seed in August.
The plant can grow up to 14 feet tall and has hollow stems that are between 2 and 4 inches wide. Its leaves can grow up to 5 feet wide and its flowers can grow up to 2.5 feet in size.
The department said that brushing against or breaking the plant can cause a burn within a few days. The noxious weed giant hogweed is a Federally listed noxious weed and is not allowed in the state of New York.
People who spot giant hogweed should be careful.
If you come into contact with it, wash it with soap and water and don't expose it to the sun for 48 hours.
If you believe you have been burned by giant hogweed, you should see your doctor. Don't touch hogweed if you think it's on your property.
The wild parsnip is native to Europe and Asia but is common in the north. It can be found from Vermont to California and south to Louisiana.
It grows mostly along roads but can be found growing in a wide range of habitats.
The plant can grow up to five feet tall. Its leaves are large and have between three and five leaflets. There are small yellow flowers that are clustered together in a flat top array.
The department said that flowering starts in May or June and lasts for 1-2 months. In the fall, the seeds are flat, brown, and winged.
When combined with sunlight, brushing against or breaking wild parsnip can burn your skin in as little as 48 hours.
Increased sensitivity to sunlight that may last for years is one of the things that can be caused by this reaction.
The DEC says to wash the area with soap and water and keep it that way for 48 hours.
If a reaction happens, keep the affected area out of the sun and see a doctor.
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