Teasel

(Dipsacus fullonum)
(Dipsacus sylvestris)

Other Names:

Fuller's teasel, wild teasel, common teasel

Range: Non-native, invasive species in many regions.

Family:

Caprifoliaceae - Honeysuckle Family

Growth Type:

Herbaceous biennial

Height:

Can reach heights of 3 - 8 feet

Leaves:

The opposite, lanceolate, sessile (clasping) leaves range from 8 - 16 inches long and 1 - 2.5 inches wide. Where they merge at the stem they form a cuplike receptacle. Water often collects in this receptacle. This is the origin of the genus name Dipsacus (the Greek word for thirst). Prickles along the underside of the midrib and sometimes along the margin.

Stem/Trunk:

The erect, ribbed, prickle covered, stems can reach more than 6.5 feet, or 2 meters tall. They can be branched above or simple.

Root:

The plant grows from a stout taproot

Flower Season:

Summer into autumn.

Flower Appearance:

A dense oval shaped cluster of flowers forms an inflorescence at the top of the stem. The flowers are typically purple and have a tubular shape with prominent stamens. Long bracts extend beyond the flowers, giving the inflorescence a spiky appearance.

Seed/Fruit:

The fruit is a small, dry achene that contains a single seed. The seeds are typically brown and have a rough texture.

Miscellaneous characteristics:

The plant is known for its spiny flower heads and the cup-like formation of its leaves, which can collect water. It is also used in traditional medicine for various purposes.

Habitat:

Teasel typically grows in disturbed areas, roadsides, and open fields. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun.

Parts Used:

Medicine: Roots
Culinary: Young shoots

Culinary Uses:

The young shoots can be eaten when cooked.

Energetics

Taste: Bitter, Pungent, slightly Sweet
Thermal: Warming
Humidity: Drying

Traditional Medicinal Uses:

The roots of teasel are used in traditional medicine, often for their purported benefits in treating pain, digestive issues, and as a general tonic.

Historical Ethnobotanical Uses:

Skin ailments, warts, digestive issues, poison

Indigenous Usage:

Iroquois

Usage Indictions:

Lyme disease, pain, digestive issues, general tonic, skin ailments

Medicinal Actions:

Analgesic, Anodyne, Anorexiant, Antiatherosclerotic, Antibacterial, Tonic