Purpuratum Thistle (Cirsium purpuratum)

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

Cirsium purpuratum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). 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. — The root is rather slender and carrot shaped.; It 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

Gravelly and sandy slopes in mountains, C. Japan. On scree and sunny rocky or sandy slopes at elevations of 600 - 1600 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)