Kardborre

Kardborre, known in English as burdock, refers to plants in the genus Arctium (primarily Arctium lappa and Arctium minus). They are biennial herbs in the daisy family (Asteraceae), native to Europe and western Asia and now widespread in temperate regions around the world.

Growth and appearance: In the first year, kardborre forms a rosette of large, heart-shaped leaves with wavy margins. In the second year a tall flowering stalk up to about 2 meters tall rises, bearing dense heads of purplish flowers. The plant produces sticky burrs with hooked bristles that cling to fur and fabrics, aiding dispersal.

Habitat and distribution: It favors disturbed soils, roadsides, pastures, fields, and waste spaces, growing best in full sun and moist, well-drained soil but adaptable to a range of conditions.

Species and uses: The two most common species are Arctium lappa (greater burdock) and Arctium minus (lesser burdock). Young leaves are edible when cooked; the thick root is used as a root vegetable in parts of Europe and Asia (notably as “gobo” in Japanese cuisine). Seeds yield inulin and other compounds. The plant has a history of use in traditional medicine as a diuretic and anti-inflammatory, though scientific evidence varies.

Ecology and management: Considered a weed in pastures and cropland due to its burrs that can irritate animals and people. Control methods include mechanical removal before seed set, mowing, and, where appropriate, herbicides.

Etymology and naming: The Swedish common name kardborre literally references its burrs; botanically, several Arctium species are involved.