Burdock
Arctium lappa
Description: Burdock is a hardy biennial herb known for its large, heart-shaped leaves, deep taproot, and distinctive purple, thistle-like flowers. In its first year, it produces a low-growing rosette of broad leaves, while in its second year, it sends up tall flower stalks that attract pollinators. Burdock is highly valued for its edible root, which has a mild, earthy flavor and is commonly used in culinary and medicinal applications.
Wildlife Benefits: Burdock’s nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, while its burr-like seed heads provide food for birds. Its dense foliage also offers shelter for insects and small wildlife.
Medicinal Benefits: Traditionally used in herbal medicine for detoxification, skin health, and digestion, Burdock root is rich in antioxidants and prebiotic fiber. It can be brewed into teas, made into tinctures, or eaten fresh or cooked to support liver function and overall wellness.
Native Status: Native to Europe and Asia, Burdock has naturalized in North America and thrives in a variety of soil conditions, including Georgia’s climate.
Pollinator Friendliness: With its thistle-like flowers, Burdock serves as an excellent nectar source for bees and butterflies, making it a valuable plant for pollinator-friendly gardens.
Planting Guidelines:
Height: 3–6 feet
Spacing: 18–24 inches
Sun/Shade: Prefers Full Sun but tolerates Partial Shade
How to Grow: Burdock thrives in well-drained, loose soil and requires regular watering during dry periods. Its deep taproot makes it difficult to transplant, so direct sowing is recommended. Harvest roots in the first year for the best flavor and medicinal potency. Remove seed heads if you want to prevent spreading, as Burdock readily self-seeds.
Grow Burdock for its rich herbal benefits, pollinator appeal, and culinary uses—a resilient and multi-purpose plant that thrives in diverse landscapes.
Arctium lappa
Description: Burdock is a hardy biennial herb known for its large, heart-shaped leaves, deep taproot, and distinctive purple, thistle-like flowers. In its first year, it produces a low-growing rosette of broad leaves, while in its second year, it sends up tall flower stalks that attract pollinators. Burdock is highly valued for its edible root, which has a mild, earthy flavor and is commonly used in culinary and medicinal applications.
Wildlife Benefits: Burdock’s nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, while its burr-like seed heads provide food for birds. Its dense foliage also offers shelter for insects and small wildlife.
Medicinal Benefits: Traditionally used in herbal medicine for detoxification, skin health, and digestion, Burdock root is rich in antioxidants and prebiotic fiber. It can be brewed into teas, made into tinctures, or eaten fresh or cooked to support liver function and overall wellness.
Native Status: Native to Europe and Asia, Burdock has naturalized in North America and thrives in a variety of soil conditions, including Georgia’s climate.
Pollinator Friendliness: With its thistle-like flowers, Burdock serves as an excellent nectar source for bees and butterflies, making it a valuable plant for pollinator-friendly gardens.
Planting Guidelines:
Height: 3–6 feet
Spacing: 18–24 inches
Sun/Shade: Prefers Full Sun but tolerates Partial Shade
How to Grow: Burdock thrives in well-drained, loose soil and requires regular watering during dry periods. Its deep taproot makes it difficult to transplant, so direct sowing is recommended. Harvest roots in the first year for the best flavor and medicinal potency. Remove seed heads if you want to prevent spreading, as Burdock readily self-seeds.
Grow Burdock for its rich herbal benefits, pollinator appeal, and culinary uses—a resilient and multi-purpose plant that thrives in diverse landscapes.
Arctium lappa
Description: Burdock is a hardy biennial herb known for its large, heart-shaped leaves, deep taproot, and distinctive purple, thistle-like flowers. In its first year, it produces a low-growing rosette of broad leaves, while in its second year, it sends up tall flower stalks that attract pollinators. Burdock is highly valued for its edible root, which has a mild, earthy flavor and is commonly used in culinary and medicinal applications.
Wildlife Benefits: Burdock’s nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, while its burr-like seed heads provide food for birds. Its dense foliage also offers shelter for insects and small wildlife.
Medicinal Benefits: Traditionally used in herbal medicine for detoxification, skin health, and digestion, Burdock root is rich in antioxidants and prebiotic fiber. It can be brewed into teas, made into tinctures, or eaten fresh or cooked to support liver function and overall wellness.
Native Status: Native to Europe and Asia, Burdock has naturalized in North America and thrives in a variety of soil conditions, including Georgia’s climate.
Pollinator Friendliness: With its thistle-like flowers, Burdock serves as an excellent nectar source for bees and butterflies, making it a valuable plant for pollinator-friendly gardens.
Planting Guidelines:
Height: 3–6 feet
Spacing: 18–24 inches
Sun/Shade: Prefers Full Sun but tolerates Partial Shade
How to Grow: Burdock thrives in well-drained, loose soil and requires regular watering during dry periods. Its deep taproot makes it difficult to transplant, so direct sowing is recommended. Harvest roots in the first year for the best flavor and medicinal potency. Remove seed heads if you want to prevent spreading, as Burdock readily self-seeds.
Grow Burdock for its rich herbal benefits, pollinator appeal, and culinary uses—a resilient and multi-purpose plant that thrives in diverse landscapes.