woolly burdock
arctium tomentosum
Also known as: ["woolly burdock","woolly bur","white burdock"]
Overview
A biennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and Asia, known for its woolly leaves and bur-like fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","medicinal use"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Arctium |
| Botanical Name: | Arctium tomentosum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or border in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Test soil pH annually; amend with organic matter; ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids prolonged frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before flowering.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be sown in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; peat moss can be added for moisture retention.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; plants may take 2–3 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base or lateral buds; thin out crowded growth to improve light penetration.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems to improve air circulation and encourage new growth; shape the plant as needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead or crossing branches; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below freezing.
Solution: Provide frost protection (e.g., row covers); move potted plants indoors; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicArctium tomentosum is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicArctium tomentosum is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicArctium tomentosum, commonly known as woolly burdock, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been used traditionally in herbal medicine for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is woolly burdock toxic to pets?
A: No, woolly burdock is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the uses of woolly burdock?
A: It has been used traditionally for medicinal purposes and attracts wildlife.
Q: How difficult is it to grow woolly burdock?
A: It is relatively easy to grow, requiring moderate care and maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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