Wild Teasel
dipsacus fullonum
Also known as: ["Scary Bear","Fuller's Teasel"]
Overview
A biennial herbaceous plant with tall, spiny stems and distinctive egg-shaped flower heads.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Dipsacus |
| Botanical Name: | Dipsacus fullonum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open area with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; annually in late fall.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid cutting into old wood.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–8; tolerates cold winters; prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F) during active growth.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize sparingly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with plant stems.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or root division; stem cuttings can be challenging but possible.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or divide roots.
- Water lightly.
- Provide warmth and light.
- Transplant when established.
Best Time: Early spring for seeds; late summer for root division.
Environment
Warm (65–70°F), humid environment with indirect light for cuttings; full sun for seedlings.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or sandy loam for root division.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may aid stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 2–4 weeks; root division establishes in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, trowel, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds shallowly; divide roots when dormant; keep cuttings moist and warm.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead flowers with sharp shears; cut back foliage to ground level in fall.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; cut back foliage in late fall to tidy appearance.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean blades.
Checklist
Use clean tools; cut spent flowers; remove dead foliage; tidy plant base.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if crowded; replant in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Not typically required for outdoor plants; container-grown plants may need repotting every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots gently; 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 reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop.
Cold Stress
Leaves may become brittle or discolored; growth may slow or stop; roots can suffer in poorly drained soil during freeze-thaw cycles.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; avoid overwatering in cold weather; protect from harsh winds.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowers may fade quickly; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after fertilizing; stop in late summer.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers; discontinue in late summer to encourage hardiness.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they ingest Dipsacus fullonum. The plant is not highly toxic to felines, but ingestion should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Dipsacus fullonum may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but care should be taken to prevent pets from consuming it.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDipsacus fullonum, commonly known as wild teasel, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic if ingested in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Wild Teasel invasive?
A: Yes, it is considered invasive in many regions due to its self-seeding habit.
Q: Does Wild Teasel have any medicinal uses?
A: Historically, it was used in traditional medicine for its diuretic properties, but modern use is limited.
Q: How tall does Wild Teasel grow?
A: It typically grows to 1.5–2 meters in height.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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