Biology

Wild teasel is a biennial plant that grows from a stout, yellow tap-root (2). Flowers are present from July to August (6), and are pollinated by various bees and long-tongued flies (2). They are well-known for attracting wildlife to gardens (6). During the eighteenth century, the water collected by the leaves of teasels was thought to remove freckles. It has also been used to soothe sore eyes (5). The roots have been used to treat warts, sores, and other skin problems (6).