Tournefort's gundelia
Gundelia tournefortii
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Pl. EACB — Gundelia tournefortii
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IOverview
Overview
Tournefort's gundelia, scientifically known as Gundelia tournefortii, is a perennial plant native to regions including Afghanistan, Cyprus, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon-Syria, Palestine, Sinai, Transcaucasus, and Turkey. This hardy plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that is light (sandy) or medium in texture, reaching heights of about 0.4 meters. It is valued for its edible parts, which include flowers, leaves, roots, seeds, and stems. Tournefort's gundelia can be found growing wild in various habitats across its native range, making it a notable presence in the landscapes of these regions.
Quick answers
What is Tournefort's gundelia?
Tournefort's gundelia, scientifically known as Gundelia tournefortii, is a perennial plant native to regions including Afghanistan, Cyprus, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon-Syria, Palestine, Sinai, Transcaucasus, and Turkey.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tournefort's gundelia thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that is light (sandy) or medium. This perennial grows to about 0.4 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, you can use seeds or divide the plant. Harvest edible parts such as flowers, leaves, roots, seeds, and stems.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.4 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Tournefort's gundelia for the first time
8steps
Tournefort's gundelia is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, making it perfect for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
A small pot or garden bed, seeds or young plants, good quality potting mix if planting in a container.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Tournefort's gundelia during spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. For containers, use a mix of light (sandy) and medium soil.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the garden bed or start them indoors and transplant young plants once they have several leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Shield from strong sunlight if planting outdoors.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure, water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune stems to maintain shape and remove dead leaves. Harvest flowers and other edible parts as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeavesRootSeedStem
Edible uses: Tournefort's gundelia is used for its various parts including flowers, leaves, roots, seeds, and stems. These can be eaten raw or cooked, often added to stews and soups. The plant is also dried and used in teas, though specific preparation methods vary based on the part being utilized.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
10 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
10 native · 1 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 10 native· 1 introduced
Europe1 region
native (1)Cyprus
Asia6 regions
native (6)AfghanistanIranIraqPalestineTurkeyTurkmenistan
Africa1 region
introduced (1)Algeria
Broader regions
native:Lebanon-Syria, Sinai, Transcaucasus
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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