Stemless Thistle
Cirsium acaulon

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae

What it is like

Cirsium acaulon is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. 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.

Height (m): 0.3

Where it is found

Closely grazed pastures, especially on chalk or limestone.

Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia to Spain and east to W. Asia.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 1

At one time the root used to be chewed as a remedy for toothache.

Odontalgic: Treats toothache (temporary measure only) and other problems of the teeth and gums.

Other

Rating:

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

How it is grown

An easily grown plant, succeeding in any ordinary garden soil in a sunny position. This plant is very injurious in grassland, killing all plants that grow below it.

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

Best place to grow: Meadow; Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness: 4-8

Growth:

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

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Carduus acaulos. L.