Woolly burdock
Arctium tomentosum · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant woolly burdock: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- July to September
- Adult size
- 80 to 150 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (zones 3 to 9)
- Origin
- Temperate Europe and Asia
- Soil type
- Rich, well-drained, tolerates compacted soils
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the first year to establish a strong root system. Once established, woolly burdock is relatively drought-tolerant. During active growth periods, keep the soil slightly moist without waterlogging.
Exposure
Plant in full sun or partial shade. Burdock appreciates well-lit locations for optimal flowering. However, it adapts well to partially shaded conditions.
Pruning and cutting
No strict pruning is necessary. Remove faded flowers to prevent excessive self-seeding if desired, and eliminate dead stems at the end of autumn. This biennial plant naturally dies after fruiting.
Soil and drainage
Woolly burdock thrives in soil rich in organic matter, well-structured and well-drained. It tolerates compacted and poor soils better than most plants, making it ideal for difficult areas.
Fertilizer
Incorporate compost or well-decomposed manure when preparing the soil. Not very demanding, this plant doesn't require additional fertilization during growth. In poor soils, a light balanced fertilizer can support growth.
Diseases and pests
Woolly burdock is robust and rarely susceptible to diseases. Watch for slugs and snails on young plants. In very humid conditions, leaf spots may appear, treatable by removing affected leaves and improving air circulation.
Did you know?
Arctium tomentosum is particularly famous for its fruits covered with hooks that cling to animal fur and human clothing: this natural mechanism inspired Swiss engineer George de Mestral to invent Velcro in 1941, revolutionizing the textile and aeronautical industries!
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- SunflowerHelianthus annuus
- YarrowAchillea millefolium
- Ox-eye daisyLeucanthemum vulgare
- SneezewortAchillea ptarmica
- Canadian goldenrodSolidago canadensis
- WormwoodArtemisia absinthium
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.