Kamchatka thistle (Cirsium kamtschaticum)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Cirsium kamtschaticum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.8 m (6ft). 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. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, 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.; Leaves - cooked.

Habitat & North American Range

In sunny grasslands and along forest margins from sea level to 2000 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)