Seed Availability

Seeds are now available at our seed store.

Description

Large leafed and tall (for a vegetable), growing to 6 feet. Flowers are purple, spiny, and appear in clusters. The large tap root can grow up to three feet.

Hardiness

Freeze hardy to well below 0F.

Growing Environment

Grows well in full sun, with well-drained soil. Plants are usually started during late spring or summer for root harvest three to four months later in the fall season.

Propagation

By seeds.

Uses

There are a number of edible uses, mostly of the roots. Burdock roots, plus carrots and seasonings make up the popular Japanese dish kinpira gobo. The root is also used in sushi, miso soups, tempura and can be fried into a potato chip-like snack. Immature flower stalks are also eaten and have a flavor somewhat like artichoke. Various parts of the plant, including its seeds have uses in traditional medicine.

Native Range

Native through the temperate portions of Europe and Asia, from Great Britain to Japan. Also found in parts of the Middle East.

Related Species

Asteraceae
	Arctium lappa Greater Burdock		Bartlettina sordida Purple Torch
	Chrysanthemum coronarium Garland Chrysanthemum		Emilia javanica Tassel Flower
	Stevia rebaudiana Stevia