Musk Thistle (Carduus nutans)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Carduus nutans is a BIENNIAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

pleasant taste, it is eaten like asparagus. — Pith of stem - boiled.; A pleasant taste, it is eaten like asparagus.; Said to be delicious.; The dried flowers are used as a curdling agent for plant milks etc.

Habitat & North American Range

Pastures, arable fields and waste places on calcareous soils. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)