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 Teasel
Dipsacus fullonum

Other Names:  Johnny-prick-the-finger, Brush & Comb, Venus's Lip, Venus's Basin
Distribution:  A native British wild flower, which is fairly common throughout Britain.
Habitat:  Rough pastures, copses and beside streams.  Prefers sunny sites.
Description:  Tall (45cm to 2m), upright biennial with many branches.  The long pointed leaves are in pairs with their bases fused to form a 'cup' in which rain water gathers.  The flowers (July to August) are pinkish purple.
Uses:  The water collected in the stems was considered beneficial and an ointment produced from the roots was used to cure warts.
Wildlife:  The flowers are a rich source of nectar and the seeds are a favourite with goldfinches.

Sowing Instructions for Seeds:  Easy!  Sow seed in late spring to early summer in a cold frame. When the seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots and plant them out in late summer for flowering the following year (biennial).