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Nipplewort is a
native
annual plant of the UK, typically found growing in scrubland, hedgerows and waste ground, to a mature height of up to 120cm.
Nipplewort is thought to take its name from the nipple-like appearance of its flower buds, or possibly from the areola-like textured appearance of the flowerhead, when the seeds are maturing. Nipplewort bears some resemblance to Wall Lettuce - both are erect and branching, with relatively sparse leaves, and yellow daisy-like flowers. However, Nipplewort has up to fifteen ray florets, whereas Wall Lettuce has only five ray florets. Nipplewort also has very different leaves, with a large delta-shaped lobe at the end and small side lobes towards the stalk, whereas Wall Lettuce has more angular and pointed leaves, with a triangular terminal lobe and more conspicuous side lobes.
Botanic classification and naming: Nipplewort is a member of the Daisy (Asteraceae) family. The genus name
'Lapsana' identifies the plant as a Nipplewort and its species name 'communis' means 'commonly found plant'.
Benefits: Pollinated by bees, butterflies and flies.
Benefits to wildlife are also indicated with orange icons in the plant profile bar at the top.
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