Description
Cirsium welwitschii (also called Welwitsch's Thistle, among many other common names) is a species of flowering plant in the daisy family Asteraceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region, and is found in dry grasslands, rocky slopes and open woodlands. It has a basal rosette of leaves and a single, erect stem, growing up to 1 m tall. The leaves are oblong-lanceolate, up to 15 cm long, with toothed margins. The flower heads are yellow, up to 4 cm in diameter, with numerous ray florets.
Uses & Benefits
Cirsium welwitschii is used as an ornamental plant, as a source of food, and for medicinal purposes.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Cirsium welwitschii is a small, white, star-shaped flower with five petals. The seed is a small, black, oval-shaped seed. The seedlings are small, green, and have a single pair of leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Cirsium welwitschii is a perennial herb that grows in dry, sunny areas. It can be propagated by seed or by division. The seeds should be sown in spring or autumn in a well-drained soil. The seedlings should be thinned out to give each plant enough space to grow. Division should be done in the spring when the plant is actively growing.