Blue Sow Thistle (Cicerbita alpina)

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

Cicerbita alpina is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, beetles, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young shoots and stems - raw. The skin is first removed, but the shoots are still rather bitter and unpalatable. Older stems can also be peeled and eaten raw but have a bitter taste. — Young shoots and stems - raw.; The skin is first removed, but the shoots are still rather bitter and unpalatable.; Older stems can also be peeled and eaten raw but have a bitter taste.

Habitat & North American Range

A very rare native of Scotland, growing on alpine rock in moist places. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)