common goldenthistle
Scolymus grandiflorus
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Pl. 4D08 — Scolymus grandiflorus
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IOverview
Overview
Common goldenthistle (Scolymus grandiflorus) is a perennial plant native to regions including Algeria, Baleares, Canary Islands, Corse, East Aegean Islands, France, Italy, Lebanon-Syria, Libya, Morocco, Sardegna, Sicilia, Tunisia, and Turkey-in-Europe. This plant thrives in light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soil types with a pH of 7–7.5, making it adaptable to various growing conditions. Known for its edible stems, common goldenthistle is also valued for its ornamental qualities due to its distinctive golden-yellow flowers. Its preference for dry to moist environments and hardiness in zones 6-9 contribute to its widespread presence across its native range.
Quick answers
What is common goldenthistle?
Common goldenthistle (Scolymus grandiflorus) is a perennial plant native to regions including Algeria, Baleares, Canary Islands, Corse, East Aegean Islands, France, Italy, Lebanon-Syria, Libya, Morocco, Sardegna, Sicilia, Tunisia, and Turkey-in-Europe.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Common goldenthistle thrives in well-drained soils of light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) texture with a pH between 7 and 7.5. It prefers dry to moist conditions and full sun to partial shade. Hardy from zones 6-9, this perennial can grow up to 1 meter tall. Propagate by seed in the spring or divide established plants in early fall. The edible stem is best harvested when young.
Light
8/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.0 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow common goldenthistle for the first time
8steps
Start with common goldenthistle as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A small pot or spot in the ground, seeds or young plants.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining with a pH of 7–7.5; use light, medium, or heavy containers as needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start young plants indoors before transplanting.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged; avoid overwatering.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light watering during dry spells and mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to encourage new growth and maintain appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poorly draining soil, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Stem
Edible uses: The common goldenthistle's stem is edible and can be prepared in various ways. It can be eaten raw or cooked, though typically it is used in dishes after being boiled to soften the tough fibers. Skip drying or making tea from this part of the plant.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
14 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
14 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 14 native
Europe3 regions
native (3)FranceItalySpain
Africa4 regions
native (4)AlgeriaLibyaMoroccoTunisia
Broader regions
native:East Aegean Is., Lebanon-Syria, Turkey-in-Europe
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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