"Common Burdock" (Arctium lappa)
A biennial propagated by seed. The burs from this baby inspired George de Mestral to create Velcro. What does that tell you!?! Parts of this plant are considered both edible and medicinal, and at the same time, is considered a noxious weed ... those darn burs!
A biennial propagated by seed. The burs from this baby inspired George de Mestral to create Velcro. What does that tell you!?! Parts of this plant are considered both edible and medicinal, and at the same time, is considered a noxious weed ... those darn burs!
2008 June 30Flower Buds forming ... even on these buds one can see "the hooks"!
2007 July 20
2007 July 20
2007 July 31
2007 July 31Here is the flower in full bloom, being pollinated by a faithful fan ... one who is fazed not, by what others feel, is a total thorn in their side.
2007 August 24It is nearing the end of August and the flowers have died back now.
As already mentioned, burdock has been used through the ages for medicinal purposes and as a cooked vegetable. Burdock has a high fiber content which allows it to be used in specialty paper-making, or for cordage.
Burdock is still used in herbal remedies. Modern chemical analysis confirms that burdock has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal proprieties, and also has anti-cancer properties similar to broccoli, cabbage, carrots, yams, etc. The crushed leaves are useful as a topical for poison ivy. Burdock is a diuretic. The Flora Essence site describes some other, medicinal uses in more detail ... look towards the bottom of the page.
When the European colonists imported it, the Native Americans found that the first year tap-roots and the second year stems were good eating. These can be boiled for about 20 minutes, seasoned and eaten like parsnips. Before, cooking the stems should be peeled, and roots scrubbed, to remove the bitter rind. If you want to try eating this plant make sure it hasn't been grown in a polluted area.
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