Contents
Description
Gundelia is a genus of thistle-like plants belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region, particularly in Israel and Turkey. The plant is popularly known as ‘Gundelia tournefortii,’ and it is a popular ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, used mainly for its tender shoots.Gundelia is an herbaceous plant that grows up to 1.5 meters in height, with many branches that are covered with prickles. Its leaves are green, and its flowers are yellow.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Gundelia |
Appearance
Gundelia is an attractive plant that adds beauty to any garden. The plant has a stout stem that is covered in spines. Its leaves are green, and they are deeply lobed, giving them a spiky appearance. The plant’s flowers are yellow and bloom in the summer.
Care Guide
Gundelia is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips for taking care of it:Water: Gundelia requires regular watering during the growing season. However, it can tolerate drought conditions.Fertilization: Gundelia does not require much fertilization. However, you can add a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote growth.Soil: Gundelia prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Gundelia thrives in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Gundelia can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gundelia is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticides can help control these pests.
Habitat
Gundelia is native to the Mediterranean region, particularly in Israel and Turkey. It grows in rocky and sandy soils, and it is often found in open areas, such as fields and meadows.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Gundelia tolerate drought conditions?
A: Yes, Gundelia can tolerate drought conditions.Q: What are the common pests that affect Gundelia?
A: The common pests that affect Gundelia include aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew.Q: What is the ideal growing condition for Gundelia?
A: Gundelia prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It thrives in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Gundelia?
A: Gundelia can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Related Plants
Here are some plants related to Gundelia:- Silybum marianum (milk thistle)- Cynara cardunculus (cardoon)- Echinops ritro (globe thistle)- Arctium lappa (greater burdock)
References
– Gundelia Tournefortii (Gundelia): A Wild Edible Plant of the Mediterranean Area with Various Medicinal Properties. (2018). Molecules, 23(2), 322.- Gundelia Tournefortii: A Medicinal Plant with Various Pharmacological Activities. (2018). Journal of ethnopharmacology, 215, 329-341.- Gundelia Tournefortii: A Review on its Phytochemical and Pharmacological Profile. (2015). Journal of ethnopharmacology, 175, 33-44.
