Contents
Description
Carlina Acaulis, commonly known as stemless carline thistle, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to Europe and grows in meadows, dry pastures, and rocky slopes. The stemless carline thistle is characterized by its large, spiny, and thistle-like leaves that grow in a basal rosette. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom from July to September. Carlina Acaulis has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and antiseptic properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota || Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Tracheophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Asterales || Family| Asteraceae || Genus| Carlina || Species| Carlina Acaulis |
Appearance
Carlina Acaulis grows up to 30cm tall and 20cm wide. The stemless carline thistle has a basal rosette of large, spiny, and thistle-like leaves that are up to 25cm long and 10cm wide. The leaves are grayish-green in color and covered with a dense layer of soft hairs. The stem of the plant is short and covered with bracts that are similar in appearance to the leaves. The flowers of Carlina Acaulis are yellow and appear at the end of the stem from July to September. The flower heads are surrounded by spiny, leaf-like bracts that protect the flower from grazing animals.
Care Guide
Carlina Acaulis is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in various growing conditions. Here are some care tips to help you grow a healthy stemless carline thistle:- Water: Carlina Acaulis is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Carlina Acaulis does not require fertilization. If you want to promote growth, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.- Soil: Carlina Acaulis prefers well-draining soil that is sandy or loamy. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0).- Sunlight: Carlina Acaulis prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Carlina Acaulis is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Carlina Acaulis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some issues that you may encounter:- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can affect the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing a white, powdery coating. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering.- Rust: This fungal disease can cause orange or brown spots on the leaves and stems of the plant. To prevent rust, ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering.- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing yellowing and distortion. To control aphids, spray the plant with a solution of water and insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Carlina Acaulis is native to Europe and grows in meadows, dry pastures, and rocky slopes. The plant can tolerate various growing conditions and is found in both sunny and shaded areas. Carlina Acaulis can grow in poor soil and is often found in areas with low fertility.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Carlina Acaulis poisonous to humans or animals?A: No, Carlina Acaulis is not poisonous to humans or animals.Q: How long do the flowers of Carlina Acaulis bloom?A: The flowers of Carlina Acaulis bloom from July to September.Q: Can Carlina Acaulis grow in containers?A: Yes, Carlina Acaulis can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives enough sunlight.Q: How often should I water Carlina Acaulis?A: Water Carlina Acaulis only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Related Plants
– Carlina vulgaris- Echinops ritro- Cirsium rivulare- Centaurea montana
References
– “Carlina Acaulis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d383.- “Stemless carline thistle.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/5287/carlina-acaulis/details.
