Cotton Thistle, Illyrian cottonthistle

Onopordum illyricum

Physical Characteristics

Onopordum illyricum is a BIENNIAL growing to 1.3 m (4ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. 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 and prefers well-drained soil. 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

S. Europe.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Edible Uses: Flower buds - cooked. Used as a globe artichoke (Cynara scolymus) substitute[183], though they are even more fiddly than that plant[K].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known