Silybum marianum
TAXONOMY
FamilyAsteraceae
GenusSilybum
Zone6
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Silybum marianum, commonly known as milk thistle, is a plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region but has spread to other parts of the world. Milk thistle is known for its distinctive purple flowers and white-veined leaves. It is an annual or biennial plant that prefers subtropical climates. The plant has a dormancy period of about 3 months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Carduus Lactifolius
Carduus Mariae
Carduus Marianus
Carduus Versicolor
Carthamus Maculatus
Centaurea Dalmatica
Cirsium Maculatum
Mariacantha Maculosa
Mariana Lactea
Mariana Mariana
Milk Thistle
Silybum intermedium
Silybum leucanthum
Silybum maculatum
Silybum mariae
Silybum marianum var. albiflorum
Silybum marianum var. marianum
Silybum pygmaeum
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Milk thistle requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in moderate temperatures and prefers a relatively dry environment. Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. Maintain moderate humidity levels.Soil
Milk thistle prefers well-draining loamy soil. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the plant. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season to support its development. Avoid over-fertilizing, as milk thistle does not require high nutrient concentrations.Repotting
Repot milk thistle when it outgrows its container or if the soil becomes compacted. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Repotting is best done in the early growing season.Propagation
Milk thistle can be propagated by seeds. Sow the seeds directly into the soil in early spring. Ensure the soil is well-draining and keep it slightly moist until the seeds germinate.Pruning
Prune milk thistle to remove dead or damaged leaves and to control its size. Pruning is best done in the early growing season. Use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts.Toxicity
Milk thistle is generally non-toxic to pets and humans. However, it is always advisable to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to prevent any accidental ingestion.Additional
Milk thistle is known for its medicinal properties, particularly in supporting liver health. The seeds contain silymarin, a compound believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using any plant for medicinal purposes.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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