Carlina

Description

Carlina, also known as Carline thistle, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia and is widely cultivated for its medicinal properties. Carlina grows up to 2 feet tall and has spiny, thistle-like leaves with whitish or yellowish flowers that bloom in summer. It is a hardy plant that can survive in various climatic conditions, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Carlina is a thistle-like plant that has spiny, green leaves with a silver-grey underside. The leaves are deeply lobed and can grow up to 12 inches long. The flowers of Carlina are whitish or yellowish and grow in spherical heads that can reach up to 3 inches in diameter. The flowers bloom in summer and are surrounded by long, spiny bracts that protect the plant from herbivores. Carlina has a deep taproot that can grow up to 2 feet deep, making it resistant to drought and other environmental stressors.

Care Guide

Carlina is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your Carlina healthy:

• Water: Carlina does not require much water and can tolerate drought. Water the plant sparingly, especially during the growing season.
• Fertilization: Carlina does not require fertilizer, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer in early spring if desired.
• Soil: Carlina prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline soil. If your soil is heavy, mix in some sand or gravel to improve drainage.
• Sunlight: Carlina prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Carlina is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Carlina is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but here are some issues to watch out for:

• Botrytis: Botrytis is a fungal disease that can cause gray mold on the leaves and flowers of Carlina. To prevent botrytis, make sure the plant is well-ventilated and not overcrowded.
• Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can suck the sap from the leaves of Carlina, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To prevent spider mites, keep the plant well-watered and spray the leaves with water occasionally.
• Aphids: Aphids are small, green insects that can cluster on the leaves of Carlina, causing distortion and yellowing. To prevent aphids, spray the plant with water occasionally or use an insecticidal soap.

Habitat

Carlina is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia and can be found in grasslands, meadows, and rocky hillsides. It prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline soil and can tolerate drought and other environmental stressors. Carlina is widely cultivated for its medicinal properties and is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping.

Question and Answer

Q: What are the medicinal properties of Carlina?
A: Carlina has antispasmodic, diuretic, and anti-inflammatory properties and is used to treat digestive disorders, respiratory problems, and skin conditions. It is also used as a natural insect repellent.

Q: Can Carlina be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Carlina can be grown in containers as long as they are at least 12 inches deep and have good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix and water sparingly.

Q: Is Carlina deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Carlina is deer-resistant due to its spiny leaves and flowers. It is also resistant to other herbivores such as rabbits and squirrels.

Q: Can Carlina be propagated by cuttings?
A: No, Carlina cannot be propagated by cuttings. It is best propagated by seed or by dividing the clumps in early spring.

Related Plants

• Centaurea
• Cirsium
• Echinops
• Silybum
• Arctium

References

• “Carlina acanthifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c165.
• “Carlina.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/1834/.
• “Carlina.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/17168/carlina/details.