Virginia thistle (Cirsium virginianum)
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. The root 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].
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
Wet pineland, sphagnum or peaty bogs, swales and clearings on coastal plain.
Native range
South-eastern N. America - Florida to New Jersey.