Cobwebby Thistle, Snowy thistle, Compact cobwebby thistle

Cirsium occidentale

Physical Characteristics

Cirsium occidentale is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies), beetles. The plant is self-fertile. 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. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

South-western N. America - S. California.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Oil Root Stem Edible Uses: Oil Root - cooked[46, 61, 105]. A pleasant taste after prolonged boiling[161]. The root 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 and eaten raw[61].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known