Cirsium pendulum
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Biennial
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. An easily grown plant, succeeding in any ordinary garden soil in a sunny position.
Propagation
Seed - sow early spring or autumn in situ. Germination usually takes place within 2 - 8 weeks at 20°c.
Edible uses
Root - cooked. It is likely to be rich in inulin, a starch that cannot be digested by humans. This starch thus passes straight through the digestive system and, in some people, ferments to produce flatulence[K]. Leaves and young plant - cooked.
Material uses
The seed of all species of thistles yields a good oil by expression. No details of potential yields etc are given[K].
Habitat
Grassland in mountain valleys and mountain slopes, forests, forest margins, streamsides, near villages and in rock crevices at levations of 300 - 2300 metres.
Native range
E. Asia - China, Japan.