A-Z of Services

Lesser Burdock

Name	Arctium minus
Also known as	Bachelor's Buttons, Beggar's Buttons, Love Leaves, Sticky Bobs, Sticky Willy, the Velcro plant.
	Waste ground, scrub, woodland clearings, alongside footpaths.
	annual
	Reputedly, the inventor of Velcro got his idea from the sticky burrs of this plant that annoyingly cling to your clothes. The roots can be roasted or stir fried, while the young shoots can be peeled and eaten raw. The taste is like new potatoes. The roots are also used in that old favourite fizzy drink, Dandelion & Burdock.
	The oil of the plant is good for dandruff and other skin complaints. Culpeper recommended "The Root beaten with a little Salt and laid on the place, helpeth those that are bit with a mad-Dog" Don't try this at home or abroad!
	up to 1m (3ft)
	July - September
	The sticky burrs. It has a larger relative, the Greater Burdock.

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Key

	Habitat

	Plant Type

	Traditions & Culture

	Medicinal Qualities

	Size

	Flowering Season

	Distinguishing Features

	Poisonous

	Native or Foreign

	Please do not pick, collect or disturb this plant