Description

Fuller’s Teasel

Fuller’s Teasel or known by its botanical name of Dipsacus sativusis a flower native to Britain. Also, this plant was an important part of history for textiles in Britain. Because, according to Marshwoodvale.com, (2022) ‘The Fuller’s teasel was used in the processing of woollen cloth; the densely compacted heads with hook-like bracts assisted in the process of napping – also referred to as raising. At this stage, about a dozen or more teasels would be inserted into a handheld frame which would brush the cloth to tease out the loose fibres in a process known as raising the nap.’

It is an unusual biennial, because during the first year it has slightly prickly leaves and does not grow very high. However, during the second year, the plant grows to around 1.5 metres high (4-5 ft) and produces rings of lilac/pink flowers on spiked cone-shaped heads, also each spike is slightly curved and much harder than the wild teasel. Before it flowers, the cone-shaped heads display a beautiful pink tinge in the sunlight. The flowers usually appear between July to August.

The spiked cone heads are ideal for using as a dried decoration in the house.

If you are a bird or bee lover, then this plant is a must-have for your garden. Because, it is known for attracting Goldfinches. These birds love the seeds produced on the prickly cone-shaped flower heads. Also, the flowers are a rich source of nectar, attracting British bees, hover flies and other nectar loving insects.

• Attracts British bees
• Goldfinches love the seeds
• Hover fly friendly
• Makes great dried flower arrangements
• Attracts a vast array of British insects, most are extremely valuable for your garden.

You will be surprised how many different insects, birds and even small animals are attracted to Teasel plants.

Instructions for seeds.

Sow in a seed tray during spring. When you feel the seedlings are big enough to handle comfortably, prick them out and plant them into individual pots. Plant them in the final position early summer. Remember, the following year they will produce the flower heads.

Instructions for live plants.

After they have arrived give the plants a little water because after travelling in the postal system they can be in need of a little water. The following day plant them in the garden and enjoy their beauty.

Reference:

Marshwood Vale Magazine. 2022. The Fuller’s Teasel – History & Community – Marshwood Vale Magazine. [online] Available at: https://www.marshwoodvale.com/history-community/2022/05/the-fullers-teasel/ [Accessed 22 September 2022].