Dipsacus fullonum aka Wild Teasel

Dipsacus fullonum, or common teasel, belongs to the honeysuckle family, Caprifoliaceae. Its native range spans Europe to the Caucasus and northwestern Africa. It is native to Britain and Ireland. This plant grows in temperate regions. It occurs on stream banks, roadsides, rough pasture, and woodland edges. It often grows on clay soils.

Common teasel grows as an upright, branched biennial. It forms a low leaf rosette in its first year. Prickly flower stems rise in the second year. Garden plants reach about 5–8 feet [1.5–2.5 metres] tall. Some reach nearly 10 feet [3 metres]. Their spread is about 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre]. The long, pointed basal leaves reach 1 foot [0.3 metres]. Green leaves bear prickles along their lower midribs. Paired stem leaves join at their bases and hold rainwater. The plant sheds its leaves and dies after setting seed.

Flowers appear from July to September in dense, spiny heads. Tiny blooms form a band around each head. Their colour ranges from pale pink and lavender to blue. Long, sharp bracts surround the heads. The fruits are small, four-sided achenes. Dry stems and seedheads can stand through winter. Goldfinches and other birds eat the seeds. Bees and other insects visit for pollen and nectar. The flowers also draw butterflies.

Grow teasel in full sun or partial shade. It suits soil of moderate fertility and needs moderate water. Moist, well-drained ground suits it, though it also tolerates poor drainage. It grows in chalk, clay, loam, or sand. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. Sources rate it for USDA zones 3–8 and UK hardiness H7. Sow seed where plants will grow in spring or autumn. It needs no pruning and little routine care.

Teasel suits wildlife gardens, meadows, and informal borders where its spread causes no harm. Cut heads serve in fresh and dried flower displays. The plant also provides dyes and has a history of textile use. It seeds freely and can escape into nearby land. Some US states list it as a noxious weed. Check local planting rules before growing it. Aphids may occur, but serious pest and disease problems are uncommon. No edible uses or known hazards are reported. That does not establish safety for eating. Traditional medicinal uses exist, but their effects remain disputed.