How much sun does Common Burdock need?

Common Burdock grows best in full sun conditions.

When does Common Burdock bloom?

Common Burdock blooms in July and August.

Where is Common Burdock native?

Common Burdock (Arctium minus) is native to MT, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

What pollinators does Common Burdock attract?

Common Burdock draws bees, beetles, and flies.

Is Common Burdock HOA-friendly?

Common Burdock takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Common Burdock

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Arctium minus

Last reviewed: June 2026

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

24"–72" H × 12"–36" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug

Native to

Pollinators

bees, beetles, flies

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Coast Range Central Basin and Range

Common burdock is a tall biennial plant that produces large, heart-shaped leaves in its first year and purple thistle-like flowers in summer of its second year. The plant is known for its burr-covered seed heads that stick to clothing and animal fur. It grows quite large and has a somewhat wild, informal appearance.

In an HOA neighborhood

Common Burdock takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

Considered a weed by many HOAs
Sticky burrs create maintenance issues
Large size and informal appearance clash with manicured landscapes

Wildlife value

The purple flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies during summer blooming. Birds may feed on the seeds, though the sticky burrs can be problematic for pets and wildlife.

Common questions

How much sun does Common Burdock need?: Common Burdock grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Common Burdock bloom?: Common Burdock blooms in July and August.
Where is Common Burdock native?: Common Burdock (Arctium minus) is native to MT, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Common Burdock attract?: Common Burdock draws bees, beetles, and flies.
Is Common Burdock HOA-friendly?: Common Burdock takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Common Burdock? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Add this plant to your garden

iPhone app Android app

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz