These biennial invasive plants were introduced into North America from Eurasia and can grow to three metres tall. They have highly branched stems ending in clusters of rounded purple flowerheads. Burdock has a large fleshy taproot.

Biennial

Burdock is found in forests and grasslands in moist nutrient rich soils. It is often found in ditch lines and other disturbed sites and it can become a problem in riparian areas once established. Livestock will readily graze burdock, but if ingested in sufficient quantities it can render milk unpalatable. Burdock seeds can become matted in the hair of livestock and can decrease the value of sheep wool. Burdock is also a strong diuretic and has been listed as a poisonous plant in some areas.

Seed is the only method of spread and each plant may produce up to 16,000 seeds. The seeds develop hooked spines that readily catch on fur, feathers or clothing thereby potentially transporting them a considerable distance.

Currently it is found throughout the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast including a number of sites in the Bella Coola Valley.