Scotch Thistle (Onopordum acanthium)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Onopordum acanthium is a BIENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots, Flowers

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring. — Flower buds - cooked.; A globe artichoke substitute, though they are much smaller and very fiddly to use.; Used as a vegetable, they are a cardoon (Cynara cardunculus) substitute.; The stems are cooked in water like asparagus or rhubarb.

Habitat & North American Range

Waste places and arable land, especially on chalky and sandy soils, avoiding shade. Also found on slightly acid soils. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)