Spicatum Thistle (Cirsium spicatum)

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

Cirsium spicatum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.8 m (6ft). It is in flower from September to October, and the seeds ripen from September 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, 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 stout with well-developed rhizomes.; It is said to be deleterious in one report though no explanation is given.; 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

In sunny grasslands of the montane zones at elevations of 800 - 1800 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)