Edible Thistle (Cirsium edule)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Cirsium edule is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies), beetles. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Shoots, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

rich in inulin, a starch that cannot be digested by humans. — 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.; Young stems - peeled and eaten raw.; Soft and sweet, they are considered to be a luxury food.

Habitat & North American Range

Wet meadows and open woods in mountains. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)