Meet Arctium lappa, a plant that goes by many names, but we'll stick with 'Beggar's Buttons' for now. This quirky perennial herb is not just a pretty face. It's a long-lived plant that adds a touch of the wild to your garden, and it's even edible!
Arctium lappa
Partial To Full Sun
Can handle a mix of direct and bright light throughout the day.
Moderate Water Needs
Requires balanced watering. Prefers soil that's neither too wet nor too dry. Suitable for regular indoor care with moderate watering needs or for balanced outdoor conditions.
Silt Loam Soil Specialist
Grows best in silt loam soil, which is fertile and has good water retention. Requires good soil drainage.
Moderately Adaptable Soil pH
Adapts well to acidic (pH < 6.5) and neutral (pH 6.5-7.5) soil conditions.
Safe For Humans
No known toxic effects or skin irritation risks.
Safe for All Animals
No known safety risks to pets or livestock.
63%
Adaptability Score
100%
Safety Score
About Arctium lappa
Beggar's Buttons is a tall plant, reaching heights between 2 to 10 feet, and spreading out to a width of 2 to 4 feet. Its lime-colored leaves are a sight to behold, and when it's in bloom, the amethyst-colored flowers are simply stunning. And let's not forget about the fruit. When ripe, they turn a beautiful shade of umber.
Despite its somewhat undesirable reputation, the Beggar's Buttons is a favorite among honeybees, butterflies, and other pollinating species. So, if you're looking to attract these helpful creatures to your garden, this plant is a great choice.
Also known as
Beggar's Buttons
Beggar's-buttons
Burdock
Cockle Buttons
Cuckold
Edible burdock
European Burdock
Fox's-clote
Gobo
Great burdock
Greater Burrdock
Greater burdock
Harlock
Lappa
Thorny Bur
Woodland Burdock
Woodland burrdock
Edibility
Yes, the Beggar's Buttons is edible. In fact, it's a common kitchen garden produce. The leaves are known to be nutritious, making it a great addition to your diet.
Our design recommendations
The Beggar's Buttons is a versatile plant when it comes to garden design. Its height makes it a great choice for the back of a border, while its wide spread makes it ideal for ground cover. Plus, its unique leaf and flower colors add a pop of color to any garden. This plant thrives in prairies and conservation lands. It's also part of the natural flora, making it a great choice for those looking to create a more natural-looking garden.