Cirsium maackii

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae

What it is like

Cirsium maackii is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower from June to September, and the seeds ripen from June to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. 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.

Height (m): 1

Where it is found

Lowland and low elevations in mountains in S. Japan. Grassland on mountain slopes, forest margins, meadows and near villages at levations of 100 - 1100 metres.

E. Asia - Japan, Korea, Manchuria.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Young shoot tips - cooked. An emergency food, used when all else fails.

Oil: Oil

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating:

The seed of all species of thistles yields a good oil by expression. No details of potential yields etc are given.

Oil: Vegetable oils have many uses, as lubricants, lighting, soap and paint making, waterproofing etc. This does not include the edible oils unless they are also mentioned as having other uses.

How it is grown

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. An easily grown plant, succeeding in any ordinary garden soil in a sunny position.

Propagating it: Seed - sow early spring or autumn in situ. Germination usually takes place within 2 - 8 weeks at 20°c. Division in spring or autumn.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

C. maackii. Maxim.