description Common Burdock Overview
Common burdock (Arctium minus), also called lesser burdock, is a biennial herb in the sunflower family native to Europe and introduced widely elsewhere. The first year forms a rosette of large, heart-shaped leaves; the second produces a tall branched stalk with pink to purple flower heads that mature into round burs covered with hooked bracts. Those burs attach to animal fur and clothing for seed dispersal and inspired Swiss engineer George de Mestral to develop the hook-and-loop fastening system later marketed as Velcro.
help Common Burdock FAQ
What is common burdock?
Common burdock, or lesser burdock, is the biennial plant Arctium minus in the sunflower family. It is native to Europe and has been introduced widely in other regions.
How does common burdock grow during its first and second years?
In its first year, common burdock forms a rosette of large, heart-shaped leaves. In its second year, it sends up a tall, branched flowering stalk with pink to purple flowers.
What color are common burdock flowers?
The flowers are typically pink to purple. They appear on the tall branched stalk that develops during the plant's second year.
What is another name for common burdock?
Common burdock is also called lesser burdock. Its scientific name is Arctium minus.
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