Scotch Thistle, Scotch cottonthistle

Onopordum acanthium

Physical Characteristics

Onopordum acanthium is a BIENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. 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. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Europe, possibly including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to Spain and W. Asia.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Oil Oil Stem Edible Uses: Colouring Oil Oil Flower buds - cooked. A globe artichoke substitute[2, 4, 9, 115, 183], though they are much smaller and very fiddly to use[K]. Stems - cooked. Used as a vegetable, they are a cardoon (Cynara cardunculus) substitute[2, 4]. The stems are cooked in water like asparagus or rhubarb[12]. They are best if the rind is removed[4, 115, 183]. Leaves and young plants - cooked[9, 105]. They are harvested before the flowers develop and the prickles must be removed prior to cooking[9]. The petals are an adulterant for saffron[46, 61, 105, 183], used as a yellow food colouring and flavouring. A good quality edible oil is obtained from the seed[2, 4, 183]. The seed contains about 25% oil[4].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Cancer Cardiotonic The flowering plant is cardiotonic[9]. It is used in some proprietary heart medicines[9]. The juice of the plant has been used with good effect in the treatment of cancers and ulcers[4]. A decoction of the root is astringent[4]. It is used to diminish discharges from mucous membranes[4].

Known Hazards

None known