Centaurea benedicta
TAXONOMY
FamilyAsteraceae
GenusCentaurea
Zone6
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Centaurea benedicta, commonly known as Blessed Thistle, is an annual plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and has been used historically for its medicinal properties. The plant features spiny leaves and yellow flowers, and it thrives in temperate climates.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Blessed Thistle
Calcitrapa Lanuginosa
Cardosanctus Officinalis
Carduus Horridus
Cirsium Horridum
Epitrachys Microcephala
Benedicta officinalis
Calcitrapa benedicta
Carbeni benedicta
Carduus benedictus
Centaurea centriflora
Centaurea pseudobenedicta
Cnicus benedictus
Cnicus benedictus var. benedictus
Cnicus benedictus var. kotschyi
Cnicus benedictus var. microcephalus
Cnicus bulgaricus
Cnicus kotschyi
Cnicus microcephalus
Cnicus pseudobenedictus
Hierapicra benedicta
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Blessed Thistle requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It prefers moderate temperatures and average humidity levels. Water the plant when the soil is almost completely dry, and ensure it has good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.Soil
Blessed Thistle prefers well-draining loamy soil. It can tolerate poor soil conditions but thrives best in moderately fertile soil. Ensure the soil dries out almost completely between waterings to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.Repotting
As an annual plant, Blessed Thistle does not require repotting. However, if grown in containers, ensure the pot has good drainage and consider refreshing the soil annually.Propagation
Blessed Thistle can be propagated by seeds. Sow the seeds directly in the garden after the last frost or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant seedlings outdoors when they are large enough to handle.Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Blessed Thistle. However, you can remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms and prevent the plant from self-seeding excessively.Toxicity
Blessed Thistle is not toxic to pets or humans. However, it has spiny leaves that can cause minor skin irritation if handled without gloves.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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