Plants of the Castlemaine District

Artichoke Thistle - introduced (*Cynara cardunculus)

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Family: Asteraceae (Daisy family).

Native of the Mediterranean region.

Occurrence: Artichoke Thistle is generally uncommon in the Box-ironbark areas of Central Victoria. It is common and abundant on parts of the volcanic plains near Melbourne. Local infestations appear to be confined to the Baringhup district.

Identification:

Artichoke Thistle is a declared noxious weed. It is regionally prohibited in parts of Victoria, and a Regionally Controlled weed in central Victoria. It is a perennial. The plant can cover a square metre or more of ground, and smother other vegetation. The leaf bases are sometimes used as a vegetable.

The related, and spineless, Globe Artichoke (*Cynara scolymus) is often cultivated.

Photos 1: Artichoke Thistle. St Albans Railway station carpark.
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2: St Albans. 3: A Baringhup paddock with abundant Artichoke Thistles.
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4: Dead Artichoke Thistle. 5: Leaf. Barfold Gorge, growing on basalt soil.
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Artichoke Thistle in bud. Barfold Gorge.