teasels

Teasels are herbaceous biennial plants belonging to the genus Dipsacus. They are native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia, with some species naturalized in other parts of the world. The most well-known species is the common teasel, Dipsacus fullonum. Teasels are characterized by their tall, prickly stems and distinctive, cone-shaped flower heads. These flower heads are composed of numerous small, tubular flowers, typically purple or pink, that bloom from the top down.

The leaves of teasels are arranged oppositely on the stem, and the upper leaves often clasp the stem, forming a cup-like structure that can hold rainwater. This feature has led to the common name "Venus's cup" for some species. The stems and flower heads are covered in stiff, spiny bracts, which give the plant a rough texture. After flowering, the flower heads dry and become hard, retaining their distinctive shape and often remaining on the plant throughout the winter.

Historically, the dried flower heads of the common teasel were used for raising the nap on woolen cloth, a process known as fulling. The stiff, hooked bracts were effective at combing and lifting the fibers. While this practice has largely been replaced by mechanical methods, some artisanal textile production still utilizes teasels. Teasels are also valued in gardens for their architectural form and their ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Birds often feed on the seeds from the dried heads.