Sonchus asper
Sonchus asper
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Pl. 5CDF — Sonchus asper
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IOverview
Overview
Sonchus asper, commonly known as rough sowthistle, is an annual forb or herb native to a wide range of regions including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, and various European countries such as Austria and Bulgaria. This plant thrives in light, medium, and heavy soils with a preference for moist conditions and a pH between 7 and 7.5. It can grow up to 0.5 meters tall and is known for its edible leaves and stems, making it a useful addition to gardens or wild harvesting areas. Its native range extends across Europe, Asia, and Africa, highlighting its adaptability in diverse climates. One distinctive feature of this plant is its rough texture, which sets it apart from other members of the Asteraceae family.
Quick answers
What is Sonchus asper?
Sonchus asper, commonly known as rough sowthistle, is an annual forb or herb native to a wide range of regions including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, and various European countries such as Austria and Bulgaria.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sonchus asper thrives in light to medium soil with a pH of 7-7.5 and prefers moist conditions. It is hardy in temperate regions but can be grown annually. Provide full sun or partial shade for best growth. The plant reaches up to 0.5 meters in height and produces edible leaves and stems. Propagate by seed, as it is an annual forb/herb. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist, especially during dry periods.
Light
7/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.5 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Sonchus asper for the first time
8steps
Start with Sonchus asper by planting it in a sunny spot and following these simple steps.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, a small trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Sonchus asper in spring after the last frost, when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Ensure the pH is between 7 and 7.5.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 meters apart in rows, covering them lightly with soil. Alternatively, transplant young plants into prepared soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the plants regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of pests or diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent watering and mulch around the base to retain moisture. Remove weeds as they compete with your plant.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune stems and leaves regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent the plant from going to seed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without improving drainage, neglecting regular pruning, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesStem
Edible uses: The leaves and stems of Sonchus asper can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often prepared by boiling to make a nutritious vegetable dish. The plant thrives in light, medium, and heavy soils with a pH between 7 and 7.5.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe11 regions
native (11)AlbaniaAustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaCyprusDenmarkFrancePortugalRussiaSpain
Asia1 region
native (1)Afghanistan
Africa8 regions
native (8)AlgeriaBurkina FasoCameroonChadDjiboutiEgyptEritreaEthiopia
Broader regions
native:Altay, Amur, Baltic States, Buryatiya, Chita, Czechoslovakia, East Aegean Is., East Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 5cdff01e-7b91-464f-9d2e-dbbb9ccdab9d
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