(Dipsacus fullonum, or common teasel, is an invasive weed here on the North Coast, with large cob-like seed heads that dry to a distinctive brittle brown when they die. The tall, stout stems persist into winter, looking very much like set dressing from a Star Trek episode as they become the only plant life still evident in that season.
These dried heads sometimes figure in decorative floral arrangements, but aside from that this Old World plant offers little we can use. Fortunately, we normally only find them bobbing in small sporadic bunches along rural roads and hillsides, but on a bike ride last week I encountered this fallow field – the better part of an acre – so entirely populated by Dipsacus that it brings to mind a cornfield.)
Appearing also on My Corner of the World.
These dried heads sometimes figure in decorative floral arrangements, but aside from that this Old World plant offers little we can use. Fortunately, we normally only find them bobbing in small sporadic bunches along rural roads and hillsides, but on a bike ride last week I encountered this fallow field – the better part of an acre – so entirely populated by Dipsacus that it brings to mind a cornfield.)
Appearing also on My Corner of the World.
It looks peaceful!
ReplyDeleteAnd not a little prickly!
ReplyDeleteThese fallow fields are preparing for action again.
Adelaide @ Halfway up Rysy Peak
It was in fact peaceful. This is a rural highway lined with farmers' fields, pastureland, and forest. On this moderate summer day a fresh breeze was rippling the immense Dipsacus field in the photo. If you look closely at the cones in the foreground you'll see that many are slightly blurry, because the lot were waving back forth in the wind. Very quiet moment.
ReplyDeleteI love these - so decorative! Emille
ReplyDelete