Burdock vs. Dock — What's the Difference?

Burdock (genus Arctium) is a biennial plant famous for its sticky burrs that can attach to animals and clothing, a mechanism for seed dispersal. Its roots, leaves, and seeds have been used in traditional medicine and as food in some cultures. Dock, belonging to the genus Rumex, includes various species of leafy plants, some of which are known for their sour taste and are sometimes used in cooking or herbal medicine. Docks are often found in disturbed soils and are considered by many to be invasive weeds.

The burrs of burdock have inspired inventions, most notably Velcro, after its inventor, George de Mestral, noticed how they stuck to his dog's fur. In contrast, dock plants are often noted for their tall, slender stalks and large leaves, which can dominate landscapes and outcompete native vegetation.

Burdock's roots are edible and are a staple in Asian cuisine, valued for their earthy flavor and believed to have detoxifying properties. Docks, while also having edible parts, particularly the young leaves, are more commonly regarded as a nuisance in gardens and fields due to their rapid growth and tendency to overshadow crops or desirable plants.

Burdock is celebrated in some regions for its culinary and medicinal contributions, notably in Japan, where it's known as "gobo." Dock plants, however, have historically been used more for their supposed medicinal properties, such as treating nettle stings, despite their invasive nature.

In terms of habitat, burdock typically thrives in areas with disturbed soil, such as roadsides and vacant lots, where its burrs can easily hitch a ride on passersby, aiding in seed dispersal. Docks also prefer disturbed environments but are particularly robust in agricultural settings, where they can be difficult to eradicate and may reduce crop yields.