Cirsium nipponicum
Family: Asteraceae or Compositae
What it is like
Cirsium nipponicum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). It is in flower from August to October, and the seeds ripen from September to November. 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. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.
Height (m): 1.5
Where it is found
In sunny grasslands and along the margin of temperate forests; 100--1600 m. Ssp. comosum. (Fr.&Sav.)Kitam.is found near the sea shore and ssp. yatsugatakense. (Nakai.)Kitam. in high mountains
E. Asia - central and southern Japan.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Young plant - cooked.
Oil: Oil
Medicine
Rating: 1
Diaphoretic, vulnerary.
Diaphoretic: Induces perspiration.
Vulnerary: Promotes the healing of wounds.
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. Plants are likely to tolerate maritime exposure. 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