Planting and Growing Guide for Gobo (Arctium lappa), also known as Burdock

Description

Gobo is a native of Europe and Asia and has spread to other countries, becoming an invasive weed. It is a large plant with dark green leaves and long tap root, both of which are edible. The leaves and stems known as gobo in Asian cooking, are used like spinach in stir-fry dishes. The Roots are eaten raw or are cooked cooked. Burdock or gobo is an easy plant to grow, but care is need as it can spread and become an invasive weed. The sticky fruits have barbed spurs that grab hold to animal fur, hair and clothing. Seeds can be stratified and germinate well spring after the last frosts. Germination occurs in about 1-2 weeks and the young plants grow quickly. Harvest the leaves continuously when young and tender. You may need to wait a year before harvesting the roots. The taste is similar to artichoke, which is a relative of burdock.

Planting Guide

Seed Depth: Sow at a depth of about 5 mm (1/8 inch) directly in the garden. Germination occurs in 1-2 weeks

Space between plants: 50-60 cm (2 feet). Thin out seedlings to this spacing.

Harvest Time: Harvest in about 16-18 weeks. Harvest roots in about 12 months.

Hints:

Burdock leaves and roots are edible - also known as Gobo in Japan
Burdock leaves and roots are edible - also known as Gobo in Japan. Source: Public Domain



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