Spinosissimus Echinops (Echinops spinosissimus)

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

Echinops spinosissimus is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Yields a gum that is used for chewing. — Yields a gum that is used for chewing.

Habitat & North American Range

Fields and rocky places. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)