Cirsium sieboldii — Edible Plant | Edible Plant Database

Summary

A perennial thistle growing to 0.9 m tall with hermaphroditic flowers from August to October; seeds ripen September to November. Self-fertile and pollinated by bees, flies, moths, butterflies, and beetles. Adapts to light sandy, medium loamy, or heavy clay soils in mildly acidic to basic conditions. Requires full sun and tolerates moist or wet soil.

Description

A perennial thistle growing to 0.9 m tall with hermaphroditic flowers from August to October; seeds ripen September to November. Self-fertile and pollinated by bees, flies, moths, butterflies, and beetles. Adapts to light sandy, medium loamy, or heavy clay soils in mildly acidic to basic conditions. Requires full sun and tolerates moist or wet soil.

Edible Uses

The root is edible cooked. It is stout with well-developed rhizomes and is likely to be rich in inulin, a starch that cannot be digested by humans. This starch passes straight through the digestive system and, in some people, ferments to produce flatulence. Young plants can also be eaten cooked.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

Asia, Japan,

Cultivation

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.

Propagation

Sow seed in early spring or autumn in situ. Germination usually takes place within 2–8 weeks at 20°C. Can also be propagated by division in spring or autumn.