Teasel
- Dipsacus fullonum
Family: Dipsacaceae

THIS PAGE IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION.
Description
Teasel is a prickly biennial herb with terete, striate, hollow stems.
The second-year leaves are simple, opposite, net-veined, sessile, and
connate-perfoliate. The blades are sessile, connate-perfoliate, lanceolate,
entire or toothed, and the midrib is usually spiny below. The flowers
are perfect and subtended by spiny, awned bracts. The inflorescence is
a terminal spike, 4-10 cm long. The petals are lilac to pink. The fruit
is a nutlet that is ribbed, hairy, and 4-5 mm long.
Interesting facts
Plants grow in abandoned fields, pastures, waste areas, and in forests.
The plants produce many seeds and the seeds seem to have a high percentage
of germination.
This species’ massive seed production and excellent seed germinability
allow it to invade areas occupied by natives. It can outcompete most natives
and soon displaces them. Because of its "sticky" characteristic,
the plants seem not to be eaten by livestock and thus dominate in pastures.
Links to more information
Website, video, and graphics by Rob Nelson
For more information on this plant or management please contact US Army Corp of Engineers
Teasel Video
Was this handy? Share this page with friends.
|
 |