Lesser Burdock seed head (frequently mistaken for a bug)
Scientific Name: Arctium minus
Order & Family: Order: Asterales, Family: Asteraceae
Size: Individual burs are typically 1 to 2 cm in diameter.
Natural Habitat
Disturbed soils, roadsides, pastures, and wooded edges across North America and Eurasia.
Diet & Feeding
Not applicable (plant matter). As a plant, it produces energy through photosynthesis.
Behavior Patterns
The seed heads (burs) are designed with hooked bracts that cling to passing animals or clothing to facilitate seed dispersal (epizoochory).
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Can be a nuisance weed and difficult to remove from pet fur; the hooked bristles can cause irritation to skin or eyes. Benefits: Historically used in herbal medicine, and the roots of related species are edible (Gobo).
Identified on: 3/6/2026