Arctium minus aka Common Burdock

Taxonomy

Genus Arctium Family Asteraceae Order Asterales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Arctium minus, commonly known as lesser burdock, little burdock, louse-bur, common burdock, button-bur, cuckoo-button, or wild rhubarb, is a biennial plant native to Europe but has been introduced to various regions including Australia, North and South America. This erect and branching plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall, with multiple branches and large green leaves that have wavy margins. It produces purple, prickly flowerheads in clusters from July to October, resembling thistles but distinguished by its hooked bracts. The plant forms characteristic brown, spiny, and hooked seedheads that persist throughout winter. Its flowers can be easily mistaken for thistles, but the burdock stands out with its large leaves, reaching up to 50 cm in length, and its deep taproot that can extend up to 30 cm into the ground. The hooked bracts of the dried flowerheads allow for easy attachment to humans and animals, aiding in the dispersal of the entire seedhead. Although invasive in the United States, Arctium minus is a fascinating plant with its distinct features and widespread presence.

Common names

Common Burdock, Cuckoo Button, Lesser Burdock, Beggar's Button, Lesser Burrdock

How to care for Common Burdock

Difficulty

Caring for Common Burdock is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Soil

Common Burdock loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Common Burdock requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Cuckoo Button is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the Common Burdock as it grows vertically.

Region of origin

Common Burdock’s native range is Most of Europe, including Britain, south and east to N. Africa and the Caucasus.

More info:
Wikipedia

More Species in Arctium Genus

Arctium lappa Great Burdock

Arctium Burdock

Arctium minus Common Burdock