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Fuller's teasel
Scientific Name: Dipsacus fullonum
Family: Dipsacaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Biennial
Other Names:
Fuller's Teasel: A Plant with a Rich History
Fuller's teasel, with its distinctive appearance, has a fascinating story intertwined with human history and ecological impact. Its unique characteristics and uses make it a noteworthy plant to understand.
Scientific and Common Names
- Scientific Name: Dipsacus (genus); specifically, Dipsacus fullonum, Dipsacus sativus
- Common Names: Fuller's teasel, Wild teasel, Indian teasel
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Family: Caprifoliaceae (mentioned as family; Dipsacaceae also used)
- Synonyms: Dipsacus fullonum syn. Dipsacus sylvestris, D. fullonum sativus (cultivar group)
Considerations for Pets
This plant has curved spines/ hooked bracts on its heads, and prickly leaves. These physical features should be considered when planting in areas accessible to pets.
Considerations for Children
This plant has curved spines/ hooked bracts on its heads, and prickly leaves. These physical features should be considered when planting in areas accessible to children.
Distribution and Habitat
Fuller's teasel is native to Eurasia. It has naturalized in the United States after being cultivated there since the 1800s.
Ecological Role
While providing shelter and food for wildlife, Fuller's teasel is also considered an invasive species in some regions, potentially impacting local ecosystems. Common Teasel is thought to be the wild ancestor of Fuller's Teasel.
Morphological Characteristics
- Tall, robust biennial plant, growing up to 6 feet (approximately 1-2 meters) or more.
- Basal rosette of prickly, lanceolate leaves.
- Tall flower spikes ending in a single large flower head.
- Pale lilac flower heads with hooked bracts.
- Spiny, dry fruiting heads.
Quirky Facts
- The flowerhead can be considered as high-rise tower block because of the support the plant gives to the surrounding wildlife.
Interactions with Other Organisms
Fuller's teasel provides shelter and food for butterflies. It also attracts wildlife to your garden.
Historical and Traditional Uses
- Cultivated form (Dipsacus sativus) formerly used extensively in textile processing.
- The hooked bracts on the flower heads were used to raise the nap, or pile, of woolen cloth.
Further Information
For more information, consult resources such as the USDA PLANTS Database and Dave's Garden.