Lapsana

Lapsana is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, commonly known as nipplewort for its most familiar species, Lapsana communis. The genus includes several annual or short‑lived perennial herbs native to Europe and Asia, with some species now established in other temperate regions as naturalized plants.

Description: Species of Lapsana are herbaceous plants with upright stems and alternate, often lobed or toothed leaves. The inflorescences are loose clusters of small yellow flower heads, typical of the Cichorieae tribe, with florets that lack separate petals. The heads mature into small, one-seeded fruits called achenes, each with a tuft of hair (pappus) for wind dispersal.

Distribution and habitat: Lapsana communis is the best known species and is widespread across Europe and temperate Asia, having naturalized in North America and other regions. It commonly grows in disturbed soils, hedgerows, fields, gardens, and waste places, favouring moist, fertile soils but tolerating a range of conditions.

Ecology: The plants are insect-pollinated and produce seeds readily, enabling wind-assisted dispersal of achenes. They can self-seed and persist in suitable habitats, occasionally behaving as a weed in cultivated areas. Taxonomically, Lapsana is distinguished within the tribe Cichorieae by particular floral structures of the heads and involucral bracts.

Uses: Young leaves can be eaten as greens when prepared, though the plant is often bitter. In some cultures, Lapsana has appeared in traditional herbal remedies, though evidence for medicinal use is limited.