Cirsium Japonicum

Description

Cirsium Japonicum, commonly known as Japanese thistle or Japanese thistle artichoke, is a species of thistle that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This plant is native to Japan but can also be found in Korea and China. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 6.5 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It has a stout stem with spiny wings that are green or purplish in color. Its leaves are deeply lobed and also spiny, measuring 8-14 inches long and 2-4 inches wide. The plant produces purple or pink flowers that bloom from July to September.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Cirsium Japonicum has a striking appearance, with its tall, spiny stem and deeply lobed leaves. The stem is stout and can be green or purplish in color, with spiny wings that run along its length. The leaves are also spiny and deeply lobed, measuring 8-14 inches long and 2-4 inches wide. The plant produces purple or pink flowers that bloom from July to September, adding a pop of color to its already striking appearance.

Care Guide

Cirsium Japonicum is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Japanese thistle:

• Water: Water your plant regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Japanese thistle grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: This plant can tolerate full sun to partial shade, but it will bloom more prolifically in full sun.
• Hardiness Zones: Cirsium Japonicum is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Japanese thistle is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by a few common issues:

• Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and distortion of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating to appear on the leaves. Remove affected leaves and use a fungicide to control the spread.
• Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. Make sure your soil drains well and avoid overwatering.

Habitat

Cirsium Japonicum is native to Japan but can also be found in Korea and China. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and along stream banks. In its native range, it is often considered a weed, but it is also cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Cirsium Japonicum poisonous?

A: No, Cirsium Japonicum is not poisonous to humans or animals.

Q: Can I grow Cirsium Japonicum in a container?

A: Yes, you can grow Japanese thistle in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s size and needs.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Cirsium Japonicum?

A: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: Will Cirsium Japonicum attract pollinators to my garden?

A: Yes, the plant’s purple or pink flowers will attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to your garden.

Related Plants

• Cirsium altissimum
• Cirsium arvense
• Cirsium discolor
• Cirsium horridulum
• Cirsium vulgare

References

• Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Cirsium japonicum. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277508&isprofile=0&
• University of Illinois Extension. (n.d.). Japanese Thistle. Retrieved from https://web.extension.illinois.edu/cfiv/homeowners/030829.html
• USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Cirsium japonicum. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CIJA3