Edible Thistle (Cirsium edule var. macounii) plant — close-up photo
Moderate to grow

Edible Thistle

Cirsium edule var. macounii

Overview

Edible Thistle, otherwise known as Cirsium edule var. macounii, is an edible wildflower found in North America. Growing up to 4ft tall, this plant has rugged, deep-green, spiny leaves and an abundance of purple-pink flowers. It is edible raw or cooked, and even its leaves are edible. The tiny flower heads can be steamed and eaten like a vegetable or added to salads. Rich in antioxidants and essential minerals, such as calcium and fiber, edible thistle is a great source of nutrition. Its taproot can be cooked like a potato; its dried leaves can be brewed into a medicinal tea. Edible Thistle is a truly unique plant that offers a wealth of culinary and medicinal uses.

Care Guide

💧

Watering

Frequent — every "7-10" days.

☀️

Light

full sun, part shade.

✂️

Pruning

Best pruned in February, March, April, May.

🔬

Propagation

Seed Propagation, Division, Cutting, Layering Propagation

Other plants you might like if you grow Edible Thistle.

Browse all →