Greater Burdock Plant Care
Arctium lappa Willd.
Arctium lappa, commonly called greater burdock, gobō (牛蒡/ゴボウ), edible burdock, lappa, beggar's buttons, thorny burr, or happy major is a Eurasian species of plants in the family Asteraceae.
Every 7–14 days
Full sun to partial shade
60–80°F
40–70%
What Is the Greater Burdock?
Greater Burdock (Arctium lappa) belongs to the Asteraceae family within the Arctium genus. Greater Burdock is also known as Common Burdock, Lappa, Gobo.
Greater Burdock displays a tall, robust biennial growth habit, reaching up to 6 inches tall with a spread of approximately 3 inches. Greater Burdock produces large purple thistle-like flowers.
Leaf size: approximately 12 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Greater Burdock?
Arctium lappa requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Greater Burdock Need?
Greater Burdock thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing Greater Burdock in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
200–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Greater Burdock Prefer?
Arctium lappa grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. Greater Burdock prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.
Temperature
60–80°F
Humidity
40–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Greater Burdock?
Well-draining loamy soil with added compost for nutrients. Good drainage is essential for Greater Burdock to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Greater Burdock?
Transplant young seedlings annually. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Greater Burdock?
Greater Burdock can be propagated through seeds.
Fertilizing
Every 8 months
During the growing season
Is the Greater Burdock Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Greater Burdock?
Greater Burdock is susceptible to aphids, caterpillars, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Greater Burdock Need?
Greater Burdock grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. In cooler regions, grow Greater Burdock as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 13a
Keep exploring plants
Greater Burdock is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Arctium genus — compare its care with other Arctium species on PlantoScan.
Greater Burdock tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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