Elk thistle (Cirsium foliosum)

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

Cirsium foliosum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. 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: Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet and well-flavoured though require long preparation. — About the size of a carrot, they are sweet and well-flavoured though require long preparation.; 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.; No more details are given.

Habitat & North American Range

Swales and other moderately moist and badly drained sites. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)