Nipplewort, Common nipplewort

Lapsana communis

Physical Characteristics

Lapsana communis is a ANNUAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to N. Africa, western and central Asia.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds; East Wall. In. West Wall. In.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: Young leaves and shoots - raw or cooked[2, 5, 17, 100]. They are best harvested before the plant comes into flower[9]. The leaves can be added to salads, cooked like spinach or added to soups and casseroles[9, 183]. They have a bitter or radish-like taste[183].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known