Cirsium verutum

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae

What it is like

Cirsium verutum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from July 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): 1.5

Where it is found

Cultivated areas, forest clearings, 740 - 2200 metres. Slopes, forests and forest margins at elevations of 2900 - 3900 metres in Tibet.

E. Asia - Afghanistan to Bhutan and Burma.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Young shoots - cooked. Roots - the tender roots are chewed fresh. Seed. No more details are given.

Oil: Oil

Root: includes bulbs, corms, tubers, rhizomes etc.

Seed: includes nuts, cereals, peas and beans.

Medicine

Rating: 1

A juice of the root is used to relieve fevers. A paste of the root is used in the treatment of stomach disorders. The fresh root is chewed to treat nosebleeds and aches in the throat, especially during the dry summer.

Febrifuge: Reduces fevers.

Stomachic: Aids and improves the action of the stomach.

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: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; 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. involucratum. DC.