Cirsium eatoni - (Gray.)Robinson.
(Gray.)Robinson.
Eaton's Thistle
gbif· cc-by-nc
Casey Flinspach
gbif· cc-by-nc
Casey Flinspach
gbif· cc-by-nc
Casey Flinspach
Description
Cirsium eatoni is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). 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 and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Edible Uses
Oil. Root - cooked. The root is likely to be rich in inulin, a starch that cannot be digested by humans. This starch thus passes straight through the digestive system and, in some people, ferments to produce flatulence. Stem. No more details are given.
Medicinal Uses
Skin. The plant has been used to treat wounds, cuts and sores.
Distribution
Western N. America.
Where It Grows
NORTHERN AMERICA: United States (Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Wyoming, New Mexico, Nevada, Utah)
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 plant is a short-lived perennial. 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
Seed - sow early spring or autumn in situ. Germination usually takes place within 2 - 8 weeks at 20°c.
Other Uses
Oil. The seed of all species of thistles yields a good oil by expression. No details of potential yields etc are given.
