Wooly carline thistle (Carlina lanata)

Wooly carline thistle

Also known as: Purple carline thistle

Wooly carline thistle is a thistle-like plant. Carlina in its Latin name Carlina lanata relates to the ancient legend whereby an angel showed Charlemagne a thistle to cure soldiers of the plague. Lanata means woolly and refers to the hairy undersides of the plant's leaves.

Scientific classification

Species

Wooly carline thistle (Carlina lanata)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

5 cm to 40 cm

Plant Height

Yellow, Purple

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Wooly carline thistle

Distribution of Wooly carline thistle

Distribution Map

The wooly carline thistle is predominantly found across the Mediterranean region and a portion of Southwest Asia, thriving in its native range that encompasses both the southern European coastline and the northern African littoral. Additionally, wooly carline thistle has been introduced to Central Europe, where it now exists as part of the local flora.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Care Guide for Wooly carline thistle

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Wooly carline thistle thrives in arid environments, exhibiting high drought tolerance. Water weekly, allowing the soil to dry between sessions. Best grown outdoors, wooly carline thistle requires well-draining soil to enhance drought resistance and prevent root rot.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, wooly carline thistle needs balanced nutrition with periodic high-nitrogen fertilizers. Apply annually in spring at 1/2 strength for containers. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn and excessive foliage. Use slow-release options for beginners, adjusting frequency based on seasonal growth changes, reducing during dormancy.

Pruning: Wooly carline thistle features a woolly texture and thistle-like look. Prune from early to late spring, focusing on dead or damaged growth to encourage compactness and vibrant blooms. Clean tools are essential to prevent disease, enhancing aesthetics and promoting overall health.

Propagation: Wooly carline thistle thrives in Mediterranean climates, requiring well-draining soil for propagation. Stratify seeds in colder regions and prepare a sand-compost mix for the seedbed. Lightly cover seeds, keep the soil moderately moist with regular watering, and ensure ample sunlight for successful germination.

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