Contents
Description
Silybum Eburneum, also known as the Ivory Thistle, is a plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This biennial herbaceous plant is native to the eastern Mediterranean region, particularly in Greece and Turkey.The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall, and it has a basal rosette of leaves during its first year. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a green-gray color. During the second year, the plant produces a tall, upright stem with thistle-like flowers that are white or cream in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Silybum |
| Species | Silybum Eburneum |
Appearance
Silybum Eburneum is a tall, thistle-like plant with deeply lobed leaves that have a green-gray color. The stem is tall and upright, and it produces thistle-like flowers that are white or cream in color. The flowers are surrounded by spiny bracts that protect them from herbivores.
Care Guide
Silybum Eburneum is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: The plant requires regular watering, but it is important not to overwater it. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Silybum Eburneum is generally a pest-free plant, but it can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.The plant is also susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or grown in poorly draining soil. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and that the plant is not overwatered.
Habitat
Silybum Eburneum is native to the eastern Mediterranean region, particularly in Greece and Turkey. The plant can grow in a wide range of habitats, including fields, meadows, and disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Silybum Eburneum a hardy plant?
A: Yes, Silybum Eburneum is a hardy plant that can grow in hardiness zones 7 to 10.
Q: What pests are common to Silybum Eburneum?
A: Silybum Eburneum is generally a pest-free plant, but it can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Silybum Eburneum?
A: The ideal soil pH for Silybum Eburneum is between 6.0 and 7.5.
Q: Can Silybum Eburneum grow in partial shade?
A: Yes, Silybum Eburneum can grow in partial shade, but it prefers full sun.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Silybum Eburneum:- Silybum marianum (Milk Thistle)- Cirsium vulgare (Bull Thistle)- Carduus nutans (Musk Thistle)
References
– “Silybum eburneum Boiss.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 28 July 2021.- “Silybum eburneum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 28 July 2021.- “Silybum eburneum.” Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Accessed 28 July 2021.
