Monday, July 21, 2008

Wild Teasel


From mid-summer and throughout winter the large seed heads of this tall herbaceous native add considerable drama to the local countryside. The dark pink flowers of teasel attract bees and the seed heads that follow are a food source for some birds. Once used as a natural comb for raising the nap on fabrics, especially wool, the mature seed head is now a favorite for dried flower arrangements.

Scientific name: Dipsacus fullonum
Italian common name: Cardo dei lanaioli
English common name: Wild teasel

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