The population of the common teasel plant has rapidly expanded over the past three decades. The teasel plant is an invasive plant species introduced to North America during the 1700s. It is recognized for its tall flowering stalk with prickly leaves, stem and head. Flowers may be white or purple, and stems can reach up to six or seven feet in height. With its rapid expansion, teasel can crowd out more desirable, native plant life if efforts to control its spread are not taken. The teasel's growth is so aggressive, because a single plant can product nearly 2,000 seeds, 30 to 80 percent of which will typically germinate.

When you come across teasel plants near your property, you can help to control its spread. In smaller areas, you can dig teasel from the ground like you might dig a dandelion using a dandelion digger, spade or shovel. The stalks of flowering plants can also be cut just prior to flowering. The plants should then be removed from the natural area. They may be placed with other yard waste and disposed of at the Village Compost Site. To learn more about Common Teasel, click here.