Wild teasel is a native biennial and flowers from July through to September, to a height between 50 to 200cm. The flowers are tiny individual pinkish purple to lilac on egg-shaped flowerheads. The stems are prickly as are the oval-oblong leaves. The leaves are fused at the bottom of the plant forming a water-retentive cup around the stem.

Wild teasel is an important pollinator-friendly plant and is of high value to wildlife. Its spiky mauve flowers are loved by bees, the water cup provides a steay source of hydration for all insects and its seeds are a particular favorite with goldfinches through the winter.

Wild teasel prefers rough, grassy places and is common on waste ground and other disturbed places, being capable of growing in most soils. Although it can grow in part shade, it prefers full sun.

This is a fine architectural plant, ideal for the back of your garden border as the tall flower can add height and interest to any border displays. It will look dramatic, and can be kept in check, if grown in a pot. It is a traditional cottage garden flower, also suited for wild areas but will take over if not kept in check. Teasels past their prime make great additions to dead hedges.

Interesting facts:

• Dipsacus is derived from the Greek word meaning “to thirst” and refers to the way in which rainwater collects in the basal leaf cups.
• A related plant, the Fuller’s Teasel, was historically used in the wool industry to tease and raise the nap on woolen cloth.