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Description:
Carlina Acanthifolia, also known as Carlina vulgaris or thistle globe, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to Europe and is found in the Mediterranean region, including Spain, France, and Italy. The plant can grow up to 80 centimeters in height and has a yellowish flower head that is surrounded by spiky bracts.
Taxonomic Information:
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Carlina |
Appearance:
Carlina Acanthifolia has a basal rosette of spiny leaves that are deeply divided into narrow lobes. The leaves are green and hairy on both sides. The stem of the plant is erect and branched, and it is covered with spiny bracts. The flower head is surrounded by spiky bracts that are longer than the flower head. The flower head is yellowish and is composed of tubular florets.
Care Guide:
Water: Carlina Acanthifolia prefers to grow in well-drained soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering in the winter.Fertilization: This plant does not require frequent fertilization. You can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.Soil: Carlina Acanthifolia prefers to grow in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral.Sunlight: This plant requires full sun to partial shade to grow properly.Hardiness Zones: Carlina Acanthifolia is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases:
Carlina Acanthifolia is susceptible to root rot, powdery mildew, and rust. The plant can also be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and thrips.
Habitat:
Carlina Acanthifolia grows in dry, rocky habitats such as cliffs, rocky slopes, and meadows. This plant is found in the Mediterranean region, including Spain, France, and Italy.
Question and Answer:
Q: Is Carlina Acanthifolia an edible plant?
A: Yes, the young leaves and flower buds of Carlina Acanthifolia are edible and are used in salads and soups.
Q: How do you propagate Carlina Acanthifolia?
A: You can propagate Carlina Acanthifolia by dividing the root clumps or by sowing the seeds in the spring.
Q: Can Carlina Acanthifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, you can grow Carlina Acanthifolia in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is placed in a sunny location.
Q: How long does it take for Carlina Acanthifolia to flower?
A: Carlina Acanthifolia usually blooms in the summer, and it takes about two to three years to reach maturity and start flowering.
Related Plants:
- Carlina vulgaris
- Carlina corymbosa
- Carlina acaulis
- Carlina biebersteinii
References:
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/carlina-acanthifolia
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/7065/Carlina-acanthifolia/Details
- https://www.britannica.com/plant/Carlina-vulgaris
- https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Carlina+acanthifolia
