Wild Burdock (aka Wild Rhubarb)

• First year plants have wavy green leaves in basal rosettes on the ground. 
• Plants usually flower during the second year, but sometimes the flowers do not emerge until the third or forth year of growth.
• A single plant produces 15,000 seeds on average, but yields of 200,000 to 400,000 seeds have been reported.
• Toxicity: Common burdock is considered toxic due to potential diuretic effects, and there are reports of allergic reactions when the hooked bristles of burs lodge under the surface of the skin.
• Velcro was inspired by the tiny hooks on the burs of this plant that stick to fur and clothing, similar to the sticky side of Velcro. www.oardc.ohio-state.edu/weedguide/singlerecord.asp?id=900   

May 6th, 2011

July 23rd, 2011