Cotton Thistle (Onopordum illyricum)

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

Onopordum illyricum is a BIENNIAL growing to 1.3 m (4ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. 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: Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Flower buds - cooked. Used as a globe artichoke (Cynara scolymus) substitute, though they are even more fiddly than that plant. — Flower buds - cooked.; Used as a globe artichoke (Cynara scolymus) substitute, though they are even more fiddly than that plant.

Habitat & North American Range

Sunny and well-drained habitats. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)