Common teasel
(Dipsacus fullonum)
Teasel is a tap-rooted biennial plant that can reach a height of 6 feet. A native of Europe, it has now become widespread in the United States. The rosette leaves are deeply veined with stiff spines on the midrib. The stem leaves are simple, opposite, clasp the stem and can be up to 10 inches long Flowers are white to purple and thistle-like with a spiny bract at the base. It is typically found in moist sites such as irrigation ditches, streambanks, ponds or other seasonally wet areas. Common teasel has been found in one known location on the golf course in Battlement Mesa.