Dipsacus sativus aka Fuller's Teasel

Dipsacus sativus is a tall biennial in the Caprifoliaceae family. Its common names include fuller's teasel and draper's teasel. Kew records it as a cultigen from Europe to the Caucasus. This means its origin lies in cultivation. Plants for a Future reports no truly wild population. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

Plants grow upright, with branches that give them a bold outline. Garden plants reach about 5–8 feet [1.5–2.5 metres] tall. Their spread is about 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre]. They reach full size within one to two years. The bright green leaves bear prickles, as do the branching stems. The plant is deciduous, so its foliage does not persist year-round. Allow room for both its height and prickly growth.

Small white flowers appear in summer on bristly, cylindrical heads. The heads later dry on the stems. Their hooked bristles help distinguish this species from Dipsacus fullonum. Dry heads give the garden structure after flowering ends. Birds visit them, with goldfinches among those drawn to the heads. Gardeners can also cut the stems for dried displays. The plant suits informal borders, cottage gardens and wildlife planting.

Grow it in full sun for the best results. It prefers deep, fertile soil but tolerates poorer ground and some shade. Chalk, clay, loam and sand all fall within its soil range. Acid, neutral and alkaline soils are suitable. Keep the soil moist; RHS lists both drained and poorly drained sites. Plants tolerate exposed sites as well as sheltered ones. RHS rates its hardiness H7, while PFAF lists USDA zones 4–8. Sow seed where plants will grow in spring or autumn.

Self-seeding can become a problem in garden beds. Cut stems as flowering ends to limit unwanted seedlings. Leaving heads standing instead provides winter display and attracts birds. Aphids may attack the plant, but RHS reports few disease problems. Dried heads have served as tools for working wool. They can brush cloth and lift its surface fibres. The dried plant also yields a dye. PFAF lists no edible uses and no known hazards. That does not establish safety for people or pets. It records folk medicinal uses, but these do not show proven benefit.