Tuberous Thistle (Cirsium tuberosum)

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

Cirsium tuberosum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). It is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to August, and the seeds ripen from July 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: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

aromatic and is then less than pleasant. — It can be stored overwinter.; A slight bitterness but acceptable, it makes a reasonable cooked vegetable.; Sometimes, however, the root seems to be very aromatic and is then less than pleasant.; The root is rich in inulin, a starch that cannot be digested by humans.

Habitat & North American Range

Damp grassland on calcareous soils. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)