Annual/Biennial
Full sun
Silybum marianum. Milk Thistle showcases beautiful purple flowers on 5-foot stalks, complemented by extra-large, spiny variegated leaves that resemble being splashed with milk. All parts of the plant are edible, and with its rich medicinal history, Milk Thistle is renowned for supporting liver health.
Caution: Milk Thistle spines are sharp and can be painful to touch; it is advisable to wear gloves when handling this plant and remove spines before consuming leaves.
*Please plant responsibly* Milk Thistle can exhibit invasive characteristics in North America. It is strongly encouraged to harvest seed heads before pods open up to avoid seed production altogether.
20 seeds per packet
Direct sow outdoors in early spring or late fall. Barely cover the seeds; they need light to germinate. Space 12-18" apart. Seeds germinate in 14-21 days.