Distaff Thistle
Carthamus lanatus

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae

What it is like

UPDATE 29/11/11: Carthamus lanatus was originallly in the database as Carthamnus lanatus

Carthamus lanatus is a ANNUAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Height (m): 0.6

Where it is found

Amongst rocks, in dry hills and uncultivated ground.

S. Europe. A casual in Britain.

Conservation Status: This taxon has not yet been assessed.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, India, Italy, Mediterranean, Sicily, Tasmania.

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

An edible oil is obtained from the seed.

Medicine

Rating: 1

The plant is anthelmintic, diaphoretic and febrifuge.

Other

Rating: 1

An oil is obtained from the seed, though the report gives no more details.

How it is grown

Succeeds in ordinary garden soil. Requires a position in full sun. This species is a potentially serious pest plant in N. America.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in gentle heat in a greenhouse. Germination usually takes place within 2 - 4 weeks at 15°c. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer. The seed can also be sown in situ in April/May but plants may not then mature their seed.

Best place to grow:

Habit: Annual

Hardiness: 6-10

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Noxious Weed Information: US - California - B list (noxious weeds). Oregon - "A" designated weed, Quarantine.In Australia the plant is commonly regarded as a pasture weed. Not considered a weed in much of Europe.

Its other names

Local names

Woolly distaff thistle, downy safflower or saffron thistle, Zafferanone selvatico. French name: Carthame laineux. Spain Spanish name: espinas de cristo. Portugal Portuguese name: cardo-sanguinho. Germany German name: wolliger Saflor. Brazil Brazilian name: cardo-lanudo. Sweden Swedish name: luddsafflor.

Synonyms

Kentrophyllum lanatum. (L.)D.C.