Silver milk thistle (Silybum eburneum)

Silver milk thistle

Silver milk thistle is a striking thistle, known for its bold rosettes of silver-veined, deeply lobed leaves lined with spiny edges. It blooms elegant, creamy-white flowers encased in spiny bracts, towering on tall stems above the foliage. Thriving in dry, rocky soils, silver milk thistle's robust form is adapted to Mediterranean climates, showcasing both resilience and ornamental beauty.

Scientific classification

Species

Silver milk thistle (Silybum eburneum)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Biennial

Lifespan

Evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Silver milk thistle

Distribution of Silver milk thistle

Distribution Map

Silver milk thistle, a plant species, is native to the Mediterranean region, where it is typically found in parts of North Africa and Southern Europe. The species has been introduced to regions in Eastern Africa. It has adapted to various environments across its native and introduced ranges.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Care Guide for Silver milk thistle

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Pruning: Silver milk thistle features striking silvery foliage and spiky flowers. Prune in early spring to enhance growth, remove dead stems, and trim spent blooms for more flowers. Regular pruning maintains appearance and prevents invasiveness. Refer to Royal Horticultural Society for specific pruning instructions.

Propagation: Silver milk thistle is a robust herbaceous plant with striking silvery foliage and spiny-edged leaves from the Asteraceae family. Propagate by sowing quality seeds in well-draining soil, keeping them moist. Handle seedlings gently during transplanting to avoid damaging delicate roots.

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