Thistle Sage

Salvia carduacea

Physical Characteristics

Salvia carduacea is a ANNUAL/PERENNIAL growing to 0.7 m (2ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower in July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) 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 - California.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Drink Seed - raw or cooked. It can be roasted, then ground into a powder and used with other seeds as a mush[161, 177, 183, 257]. The seeds can be added to wheat to improve the flavour[257]. It can also be used as a cooling beverage[161, 177, 183].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known