Lappa

Lappa is a genus of plants in the family Asteraceae. It is also known as Burdock, a common name shared with some other plants in several species and genera in the family Asteraceae.

Description

Lappa species are biennial or perennial plants, rarely annuals or subshrubs. The genus includes both small plants and large trees. The leaves are generally large, up to 1 m (3 ft 3 in) long, with the lower ones being heart-shaped and the upper ones being more lanceolate. The flowers are purple or pink, with the individual florets arranged in dense, globular, spiny capitula (flower heads). The fruit is a burr containing multiple seeds.

Species

There are about 10-20 species in the genus Lappa. Some of the most well-known species include:

• Lappa major – Greater Burdock
• Lappa minor – Lesser Burdock
• Lappa tomentosa – Woolly Burdock
• Lappa officinalis – Common Burdock

Uses

Lappa species have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. They are known for their purifying properties and are used in the treatment of various skin conditions. The roots of some species are also edible and are used in certain Asian cuisines.

See also

• List of Lappa species
• Asteraceae
• Burdock

References

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