Spotted Golden Thistle (Scolymus maculatus)

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

Scolymus maculatus is a ANNUAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower in July. 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 and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young leaves cooked. They can be used as a spinach. Root - cooked. — Young leaves cooked.; They can be used as a spinach.

Habitat & North American Range

Waysides and cornfields on dry soils. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)