Eggarton Cottages, Eggarton Lane, Godmersham, Kent, CT4 7DY
Tel/Fax: 01227 730242
Also known as Barber�s Brushes, Gypsys� Comb, Jenny Prickfinger and Donkey Thistle. This hardy perennial is well-known for the attraction goldfinches and bees pay it, as well as butterflies, particularly the Common Blue, Common Skipper and Small Copper. It is popular in dried flower arrangements. Long, oval, spiky flowerheads with tiny pinky-mauve flowers amongst the spikes. Flowers July to August. Looks just as attractive when the flowers have all dropped. Found naturally by roadsides, riverbanks and canals. Its name comes from the old English word �taesen� � to tease. Dipsacus comes from the Greek �dipsakos�, meaning thirst, referring to the water held in the leaf bases.
Rainwater caught in the cupped leaf bases was traditionally used as a skin cleanser. Birds and insects will also drink this water � it used to be thought that the plant was carnivorous because of the insects it trapped. The spiky flower heads were used to tease (raise) the nap on cloth � they still are in parts of Somerset (a process called carding). Can grow to a height of 79 in (2 m). The plant is also used in homeopathy to treat TB, dermatitis and anal fistulas. In Chinese medicine Teasel is used for healing broken bones and tendons. It is also a liver and kidney tonic.
One plant can produce over 2000 seeds, up to 80% of which will germinate. Seeds remain viable for two years.
Plant out mid-autumn. Spikes will usually appear in its second year. Tolerates sun or semi-shade. Will grow in most soils, including clays, as long as there is some moisture. Cut back in September once the seed has fallen.
*This sheet is provided for information only and is in no way a prescription for use. Please seek the advice of a qualified herbalist before using*