Posted by
jmorth (central Illinois) on Sep 12, 2012 8:11 AM concerning plant:
Biennial plant of significant size topping out at 8'. Opposite toothed leaves that are joined around the stem are up to a foot in length; broad at the base, they narrow down to a pointed tip. Plant's stems are numerous and very prickly. Flowers are pink, tiny, and densely packed in rings around the cylindrical head. Numerous stiff, long bracts (w/ prickles) curve upward around flower head.
Preferred habitat - disturbed soil in pastures and fields, also, roadsides This European native is considered a noxious pest weed due to the difficulty in erasing its presence.
Back in the day, flower heads were utilized on spindles to raise the nap of woolen cloth; also, in dried arrangements.
Initially scattered in Illinois, its range and density are expanding. Can form dense colonies.
Blooms June thru October.
Posted by
Skiekitty (Denver Metro - Zone 5a) on May 8, 2013 10:33 AM concerning plant:
This plant was introduced from Eurasia as a comb for textile workers working with fine wools to "warm" the threads. When it is used as a comb, it can create pockets of air within the fibers to make the fabric feel "warmer."
Posted by
KFredenburg (Black Hills, SD - Zone 5a) on Aug 12, 2020 2:26 PM concerning plant:
Information from "The Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Wildflowers":
Dipascus, presumably coming from the Greek word dipsa, meaning "thirst", refers to the water accumulated in the cup-like bases of joined leaves.
Posted by
Cakeholemoon (Garfield, WA - Zone 6a) on Feb 22, 2018 12:27 AM concerning plant:
Is the Common Teasel a carnivorous plant? The leaves of this plant form a cup at the base where they attach to the stem. When it rains, the leaf basin fills with water. Insects become trapped in the water and die. There have been studies which have shown that this plant can benefit from the additional nitrogen and phosphorous from the decaying insects. The benefit: increased seed production. Good news for the Goldfinches!
