Belongs to: daisy family

Lesser burdock Arctium minus

Also known as: velcro plant


Best time to see: Jul to mid Sep

Key facts

Hefty, sprawling biennial with hooked, clinging seed heads, reputedly serving as the inspiration for velcro

An infusion of its roots is used, with dandelion, in a once-popular fizzy drink

Extras

Flowers are thistle-like, surrounded by long shiny yellow bracts that close in cold conditions

Large heart-shaped leaves are longer than they are broad (unlike greater burdock), and have hollow stalks


© Tony Gunton

© Tony Gunton