Cullumia Carlinoides

Description

Cullumia Carlinoides, also known as the Carline thistle, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe and can grow up to 60 cm tall. The stems are erect, branched, and covered with spiny leaves. The flowers are yellow and bloom from July to September. The plant is named after the Scottish botanist George Cullum.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Cullumia Carlinoides has spiny leaves that are 5-15 cm long and 1-3 cm wide. The leaves are green on the upper surface and grayish-green on the lower surface. The flowers are 2-3 cm in diameter and have yellow petals. The fruit is a dry achene with a tuft of hairs that aids in dispersal. The plant has a taproot system that can grow up to 1 meter deep.

Care Guide

Cullumia Carlinoides prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant requires moderate watering, but it can tolerate drought conditions. Overwatering can lead to root rot. It is recommended to fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Carline thistle is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Cullumia Carlinoides is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by maintaining good air circulation around the plant and by avoiding overhead watering. The plant can also be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and slugs. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or by handpicking.

Habitat

Cullumia Carlinoides is native to Europe and is commonly found in meadows, grasslands, and rocky slopes. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions. The plant is adapted to a wide range of soil types and can grow in both acidic and alkaline soils.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Cullumia Carlinoides be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Carline thistle can be grown in containers. However, it requires a large container to accommodate its taproot system.

Q: Is Cullumia Carlinoides deer-resistant?

A: Yes, the spiny leaves of Carline thistle make it deer-resistant.

Q: Can Cullumia Carlinoides be propagated from cuttings?

A: No, Carline thistle is difficult to propagate from cuttings. It is best propagated from seeds.

Q: Can Cullumia Carlinoides be used for medicinal purposes?

A: Yes, Carline thistle has been used in traditional medicine to treat liver and gallbladder problems.

Related Plants

• Cirsium arvense
• Cirsium vulgare
• Carduus nutans
• Carduus acanthoides

References

• Davis, P. H., et al. (1988). Flora of Turkey and the East Aegean Islands, Vol. 10. Edinburgh University Press.
• Harley, R. M., et al. (2004). The New Royal Horticultural Society Dictionary of Gardening, Vol. 1. Groves Dictionaries.
• Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. (2021). Cullumia Carlinoides. Retrieved from https://www.rbge.org.uk/plants/10459/cullumia-carlinoides/