Sonchus kirkii
Hamlin
Rauroroa
iNaturalist· cc-by
(c) Jon Sullivan, some rights reserved (CC BY)
iNaturalist· cc-by
(c) Jon Sullivan, some rights reserved (CC BY)
iNaturalist· cc-by
(c) Jon Sullivan, some rights reserved (CC BY)
Summary
Source: WikipediaSonchus kirkii, also known as New Zealand sow thistle, or shore puha is a herb in the Asteraceae family. It grows in coastal New Zealand.
Description
Hermaphroditic species pollinated by insects. Tolerates light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils with mildly acid to basic pH. Grows in semi-shade or full sun and prefers moist soil.
Edible Uses
Leaves can be eaten raw or cooked.
Traditional Uses
The young leaves are eaten raw or cooked.
This uses section is brief — help expand it
Medicinal Uses
None known
Distribution
It is a temperate plant.
Where It Grows
New Zealand*,
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will succeed in Britain. This species does not appear in the 'Flora of New Zealand and there must be some doubts over the validity of its name. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. This species is nt in the IOPI list of accepted plant names. Succeeds in most soils in a sunny position.
Propagation
No specific information is recorded for this species, but outdoor sowing in mid-spring in situ would likely succeed — barely cover the seed. With only a small quantity of seed, it is safer to sow in a cold frame in winter, prick out into individual pots once large enough to handle, and plant out in early summer. Division can also be carried out in spring.
Other Uses
None known Special Uses
Notes
There are about 60 Sonchus species.
References (2)
- Crowe, A., 1997, A Field Guide to the Native Edible Plants of New Zealand. Penguin. p 99
- Plants for a Future database, The Field, Penpol, Lostwithiel, Cornwall, PL22 0NG, UK. http://www.scs.leeds.ac.uk/pfaf/
