Indian Thistle, Clustered thistle

Cirsium brevistylum

Physical Characteristics

Cirsium brevistylum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.8 m (6ft). 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. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Western N. America.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Oil Root Stem Edible Uses: Oil Root - peeled and eaten raw or cooked[177, 256, 257]. One of the more palatable thistle roots[212]. The thick, carrot-like taproot is likely to be rich in inulin, a starch that cannot be digested by humans. This starch thus passes straight through the digestive system and, in some people, ferments to produce flatulence[K]. Stem - peeled[212]. One of the more palatable thistles[212]. The flowerheads have been chewed to obtain the nectar[257].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known