Cirsium spicatum
Cirsium spicatumfam. Astrosomeae
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Pl. 137E — Cirsium spicatum
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IOverview
Overview
Cirsium spicatum, a member of the Astrosomeae family and native to Japan, is a perennial plant that can grow up to 1.8 meters in height. Known for its edible leaves and roots, this plant thrives in moist conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil. It requires full sun exposure and is particularly suited to habitats where it can spread freely. This plant's distinctive feature lies in its versatile use as an edible, making it a valuable addition to gardens or landscapes where its ornamental value complements its practical benefits.
Quick answers
What is Cirsium spicatum?
Cirsium spicatum, a member of the Astrosomeae family and native to Japan, is a perennial plant that can grow up to 1.8 meters in height. Known for its edible leaves and roots, this plant thrives in moist conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cirsium spicatum thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial grows up to 1.8 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing ample sunlight. Propagation can occur through root division or seed sowing. Harvest edible parts—leaves and roots—from established plants.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.8 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Cirsium spicatum for the first time
8steps
Start with Skip by ensuring you have the right conditions and care, making it a simple addition to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A sunny spot in your garden, seeds or young plants, and tools for planting.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in spring after the last frost or in early fall.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a mix of light, medium, and heavy textures. Amend as needed for moisture retention.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside. Transplant young plants carefully.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and protect from extreme weather conditions.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Mulch around the plant for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in too heavy soil, neglecting to prune, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:oil
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Japan
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 137e7bb3-053b-42a4-959d-d19597d453b3
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