Dipsacus fullonum - Teasel

Dipsacus fullonum can be a pest and care should be taken if you grow this plant as it is on many noxious weed lists. Teasel is pretty striking in the garden in spite of its weedy and spiny nature. Dipsacus fullonum was introduced to North America in the 1700's. Teasel can be found in ditches, pond margins and abandoned fields. Dipsacus fullonum grows as a spiny clump of green leaves the first year and puts up 5-6 foot flower stalks the second. Dipsacus fullonum produces its pink flowers in the Summer and a lot of seed in the fall as the seed heads dry out. The birds do appreciate the seed.