Bardane

Arctium lappa (ARK-tee-um LAP-uh)

Family: Asteraceae Non-native Herbaceous (3-15 ft)

Great Burdock is a weedy, biennial wildflower belonging to the Aster family. Originating in temperate Eurasia centuries ago, it is now widely distributed in many parts of the world. In North America, it readily naturalizes in disturbed areas, empty lots, parks, roadsides, fields and pastures. Growth may become invasive and difficult to contain, competing with beneficial native plants. It is extremely difficult to eradicate due to its deep tap roots and copious amounts of seed that remain viable for a long while even if plants are destroyed. Its first year's growth forms a short, dense rosette of leaves. In its second year, it bolts to heights 2-10 feet, develops very large heart-shaped leaves, purple thistle-like flowers, and slender, fleshy, gray-brown tap roots growing to depths of 3 feet. Clusters of purple flowerheads are arranged in flat-headed cymes, with globular bracts terminating in fine, sharp hooks forming burs that aid in seed dispersal by latching onto animals, birds, or hay bales. Burs are very difficult to remove and reportedly have killed small birds and bats that become entangled. Fruits (achenes) within these burs contain sharp, minute bristles (pappas hairs) that easily become windborne and, if exposed to them, can cause severe eye, skin, and respiratory irritation and/or infection in humans, dogs, horses or other livestock. It prefers full sun locations with moist, well drained soil rich in organic matter and nitrogen. In Asia and other parts of the world, Great Burdock has been cultivated for for its edible roots and medicinal uses. Cultivated plants are sown from seed in summer and first-year roots are harvested by late autumn before becoming too fibrous. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: This plant is weedy, aggressive and difficult to eradicate once established. It is susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot with potential to impact agricultural plants. Burs and bristles may cause severe eye, skin or respiratory problems in humans, dogs, horses, and other livestock. Burs are difficult to remove from animals and clothing.

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 61 attributes.