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Description
Dipsacus Sylvestris, commonly known as Wild Teasel or Fuller’s Teasel, is a biennial or perennial plant that belongs to the teasel family. The plant is native to Europe, including the United Kingdom, and Western Asia. The plant can grow up to six feet tall and has a spiky appearance with prickly stems and leaves. In the first year of growth, the plant produces a basal rosette of leaves, followed by a tall flower stalk in the second year.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Dipsacaceae |
| Genus | Dipsacus |
Appearance
The plant has a unique spiky appearance with prickly stems and leaves, making it easy to identify. The leaves are lance-shaped, toothed, and grow in opposite pairs along the stem. The flowers are small, pink or purple, and arranged in a cylindrical, cone-like shape. The flowers appear in the second year of growth, from June to September.
Care Guide
Water: Dipsacus Sylvestris prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate periods of drought. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells.
Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, you can add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil in the spring to encourage growth.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soil.
Sunlight: Dipsacus Sylvestris prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The plant is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and verticillium wilt. Pests that may affect the plant include aphids, thrips, and spider mites.
Habitat
Dipsacus Sylvestris is commonly found in open, sunny areas, including meadows, hedgerows, and woodland edges. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soil. The plant is native to Europe, including the United Kingdom, and Western Asia.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dipsacus Sylvestris edible?
A: No, the plant is not edible and can be toxic if ingested.
Q: Can Dipsacus Sylvestris be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container, but it requires a large pot and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should Dipsacus Sylvestris be pruned?
A: The plant does not require frequent pruning. However, you can remove dead or damaged stems and flowers in the fall or spring.
Q: Can Dipsacus Sylvestris be propagated from seeds?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from seeds. Collect the seeds in the fall and sow them directly into the soil in the spring.
Related Plants
- Dipsacus Fullonum (Common Teasel)
- Cephalaria Gigantea (Giant Scabious)
- Phlomis Russeliana (Turkish Sage)
References
- “Dipsacus Sylvestris (Wild Teasel).” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/15761/dipsacus-sylvestris/details. Accessed 14 Sept. 2021.
- “Dipsacus Sylvestris.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286046. Accessed 14 Sept. 2021.
- “Dipsacus Sylvestris (Wild Teasel).” PlantNet, plantnet.org/en/illustration/dipsacus-sylvestris. Accessed 14 Sept. 2021.
