Maritimum Thistle (Cirsium maritimum)

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

Cirsium maritimum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in). It is in flower from August to October, and the seeds ripen from September to November. 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: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

rich in inulin, a starch that cannot be digested by humans. — Root - raw or cooked.; 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.

Habitat & North American Range

Near seashores, C. Japan. In maritime rocky and grassy slopes from sea level to elevations of 20 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)