Arctium lappa

A plant that is truly architectural for a few weeks before and whilst in flower. At this time it makes an open plant that has huge heart-shaped (cordate) basal leaves and stout branching stems that carry thistle look-alike flowering heads comprising a rounded spiky base with a short tussock of purple at the top. It collapses quickly and gracelessly once flowering is over. When one has learnt to identify it, 'burdock spotting' is a pleasure when out in the country during July and August, when its quaint amplitude is at its peak. The seed heads have hooks and are collected on the clothes or hair of passers by. It has a number of medicinal uses being used to cure skin conditions, whilst extracts from the seeds can lower blood sugar. The roots can be eaten cooked or raw and the Japanese use it in a condiment called tekka.