Wooly Thistle (Cirsium eriophorum)

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

Cirsium eriophorum is a BIENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. 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, 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: Leaves, Shoots, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young leaves - raw. Young stems - raw or cooked. An asparagus or rhubarb substitute. The stems are peeled and soaked in water to remove the bitterness, they are then said to be excellent eating. Flower buds - cooked. — Young leaves - raw.; Young stems - raw or cooked.; An asparagus or rhubarb substitute.; The stems are peeled and soaked in water to remove the bitterness, they are then said to be excellent eating.

Habitat & North American Range

Grassland, open scrub and roadsides on calcareous soils. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)