Wavy-Leaved Thistle (Cirsium undulatum)

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

Cirsium undulatum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). 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. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Shoots, 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.; One of the more palatable thistles, it is used as a vegetable or can be added to soups and stews.; It can be dried and stored for winter use.; The root is likely to be rich in inulin, a starch that cannot be digested by humans.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry open soils. Prairies, pastures and roadsides in Texas. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)