UK Flowers: Herbs, Shrubs, Vines & Trees
UK Flowers

UK Carline Thistle

Herb Icon Cultivated Flower     First Aid Symbol  Edible Symbol 
Image of Carline Thistle
Carlina vulgaris
Family: Asteraceae

Flower Properties

Property Value
English Name Carline Thistle
Scientific Name Carlina vulgaris
MainColor White
PlantType Herb Icon Herb
Distribution Cultivated Flower Cultivated
Season Found August (Jul - Sep)
ImageUrl Carlina-001
Photographer DP
Location Found Glyndebourne
Country Found UK
Last Updated 03 September 2026
Photo Quality B

Flower Details

Description

Carline Thistle is a perennial plant characterised by its spiky, thistle-like flowers that can be yellow or white. The leaves are deeply lobed and form a rosette at the base, while the stem can reach up to 80 cm in height.

Distribution

This species is commonly found in dry, grassy areas and open woodlands across Europe and parts of Asia. It prefers well-drained soils and is often seen in chalky or limestone habitats.

Medicinal/Other Uses First Aid Symbol

✅ Historically, Carline Thistle has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. The dried flower heads were also used as a remedy for various ailments, including digestive issues.

Edibility Edible Symbol  

The young leaves and roots of Carline Thistle can be consumed, often used in salads or cooked as a vegetable. However, they should be harvested with care as older parts of the plant can be tough and bitter.

Human Toxicity
Non_Toxic

— No significant medicinal uses noted for modern applications.

Pet Toxicity Pet Toxicity

Non Toxic to dogs and cats - ingestion is not known to cause harm to pets.

Active Compounds

The plant contains flavonoids and other phenolic compounds, which may contribute to its medicinal properties.

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