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common goldenthistle

Scolymus grandiflorus
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Scolymus grandiflorus (common goldenthistle) — botanical photograph
Pl. 4D08 — Scolymus grandiflorus
Scolymus grandiflorusScolymus grandiflorusScolymus grandiflorusScolymus grandiflorusScolymus grandiflorusScolymus grandiflorusScolymus grandiflorusScolymus grandiflorusScolymus grandiflorusScolymus grandiflorusScolymus grandiflorusScolymus grandiflorusScolymus grandiflorusScolymus grandiflorus
I

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
V

Cultivation

Common goldenthistle thrives in light to medium soil, preferring a pH of 7–7.5. It tolerates both dry and moist conditions but needs well-drained soil to prevent root rot. This perennial is hardy in zones 6-9 and can grow up to 1 meter tall. For propagation, use stem cuttings or division. Ensure it receives plenty of light, as it rates a light requirement of 8/10. Regular watering is necessary, especially during dry spells, but avoid overwatering to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
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. 1

    What you'll need

    A small pot or spot in the ground, seeds or young plants.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall.

  3. 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. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds in the ground or start young plants indoors before transplanting.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged; avoid overwatering.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide light watering during dry spells and mulch around the base for moisture retention.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to encourage new growth and maintain appearance.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in poorly draining soil, neglecting regular pruning.

VI

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
VII

Distribution

14 native · 0 introduced
Distribution 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
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Scolymus grandiflorus (common goldenthistle) — botanical photograph
common goldenthistle (Scolymus grandiflorus)
XI

Explore further

Growing zone
XII

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