Nippleworts

Nippleworts is a common name applied to several species of small flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, most often referring to Lapsana communis (common nipplewort). These herbaceous plants are typically annual or short-lived perennials with upright stems and clusters of small yellow composite flower heads. Leaves are variable but generally alternate and often toothed or lobed. Flowering occurs in summer and early autumn.

Native to temperate regions of Europe and Asia, nippleworts have been widely introduced to other parts of the world, including North America, where they frequently appear in disturbed ground, hedgerows, roadsides and gardens. They are adaptable to a range of soils and light conditions and are often regarded as ruderal or weedy species rather than cultivated ornamentals.

Ecologically, nippleworts provide nectar and pollen for a variety of insects, including bees and small flies, and their small seeds may be dispersed by wind and animal activity. In traditional herbal use, plants called nipplewort were sometimes applied in folk remedies for minor skin or breast complaints; the common name likely reflects these associations. There is limited modern evidence supporting medicinal claims, and nippleworts are not prominent in contemporary phytotherapy.

Nippleworts are not generally of conservation concern and can be managed easily by standard weeding or mowing where they are unwanted. In some regions they are embraced for their role in early-season insect forage and as part of diverse roadside and field-edge flora.