It is distributed from Madeira and the Canary Islands across Europe and northern Africa to Siberia and northwestern China. Most are biennial herbs, but the genus includes annuals, perennials, shrubs, and dwarf trees, as well. The largest reach about 80 cm tall. The stems are upright and branching or unbranched. The leaves have toothed or lobed blades with spiny edges and sometimes woolly hairs. The flower heads are solitary or borne in inflorescences. The head is hemispherical to bell-shaped and lined with several layers of spiny phyllaries. It contains tubular or funnel-shaped disc florets in shades of yellow or red. The fruit is a hairy cypsela with a plumelike pappus made up of tufts of bristles. There are about 28 to 34 species in the genus.
Water:
Carlina thrives under cyclical moisture conditions, favoring moderate hydration and tolerating brief dry spells. Weekly watering helps mimic its natural rhythm, allowing carlina to adjust water uptake during the growing season for optimal health.
Propagation:
Propagation of carlina primarily involves seed sowing, requiring full sun, well-draining soil, and suitable temperatures. Key steps include collecting seeds, stratifying if needed, and ensuring moist soil until germination. Thin seedlings and transplant when sturdy to prevent overcrowding.
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