| Cutleaf teasel is a perennial plant that grows as a basal rosette until sending up a flowering stalk that can reach 6-7 ft. (1.8-2.1 m) in height. The small, white flowers densely cover oval flower heads and are present from July to September. Spiny bracts are located on the ends of flower stems. Opposite leaves are joined at the base and form cups that surround the prickly stem. Cutleaf teasel grows in open, sunny habitats preferring roadsides and other disturbed areas, although it can sometimes be found in high quality areas such as prairies, savannas, seeps, and sedge meadows. Cutleaf teasel was introduced from Europe in the 1700's and spreads by producing abundant seeds. It can be found in the northern states from Massachusetts to Colorado. |
