Cirsium pendulum

Physical Characteristics

Cirsium pendulum is a BIENNIAL growing to 1.8 m (6ft). It is in flower from June to September, and the seeds ripen from July to September. 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. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Oil Root Edible Uses: Oil Root - cooked[105, 177]. The root is only slightly thickened[275]. It 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]. Leaves and young plant - cooked[105, 177].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known