Great Burdock (Arctium lappa)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Arctium lappa is a BIENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour the root can absorb other flavours. — Root - raw or cooked.; Very young roots can be eaten raw, but older roots are normally cooked.; They can be up to 120cm long and 2.5cm wide at the top, but are best harvested when no more than 60cm long.; Old and very long roots are apt to become woody at the core.

Habitat & North American Range

Waste ground, preferring calcareous soils, it is sometimes also found in meadows and woods. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)