Burdock

Burdock is a striking biennial plant, often found in hedgerows and wild spaces across the UK, though its young roots and shoots are also valued as a vegetable and herb. In its first year, it produces a large rosette of heart-shaped, downy leaves, followed in its second year by tall flowering stalks (up to 1.5m) bearing purple thistle-like flowers, which develop into characteristic burrs. Fully hardy (H7), it thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers deep, rich, well-drained soil. The taproot is the most commonly harvested part for culinary and medicinal purposes. Allow ample space as it can become quite large.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Deep, rich, well-drained.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug.