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Description
Dipsacus Sativus, commonly known as Teasel or Fuller’s Teasel, is a biennial plant that belongs to the Dipsacaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia but has spread to other parts of the world, including North America, where it is considered an invasive species. The plant can grow up to six feet tall and has a spiky appearance with prickly leaves and stems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Dipsacaceae |
| Genus | Dipsacus |
Appearance
Teasel has a unique and striking appearance, with tall stems that can grow up to six feet tall. The leaves are prickly and lance-shaped, with small spines along the edges. The flowers are pink or purple and grow in a cylindrical shape on the top of the stem. The seed heads are also cylindrical and covered in small spines, which have historically been used in the textile industry to raise the nap on fabrics.
Care Guide
To care for Teasel, it is important to provide it with ample water and sunlight. The plant prefers well-draining soil and should be fertilized once a month during the growing season. Teasel is hardy in zones 4-9 and should be protected from harsh winter conditions. It is a low-maintenance plant that does not require much pruning or special care.
Common Pests & Diseases
Teasel is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also suffer from root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Teasel is native to Europe and Asia and can be found growing in open meadows and fields. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. In North America, Teasel is considered an invasive species and can be found growing in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Teasel?
A: Teasel has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including arthritis and Lyme disease. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Q: Can Teasel be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Teasel can be grown in containers as long as there is enough room for the plant to grow and thrive. It is important to provide the plant with ample water and sunlight.
Q: Is Teasel toxic to pets?
A: Teasel is not considered toxic to pets, but the prickly leaves and stems can cause irritation if ingested.
Q: Can Teasel be used in floral arrangements?
A: Yes, Teasel is often used in floral arrangements for its unique appearance and texture.
Related Plants
- Dipsacus Fullonum
- Dipsacus Pilosus
- Dipsacus Sylvestris
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Dipsacus sativus. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279789&isprofile=0&
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension. (n.d.). Teasel. Retrieved from https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/weedsci/teasel/
- WebMD. (n.d.). Teasel. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-882/teasel
