Water
Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Reduce watering in winter.
Also known as Blessed Milk Thistle · Blessed Thistle · Bull Thistle
Blessed Milkthistle (Silybum marianum) is a striking annual or biennial plant with large, spiny leaves and showy purple flower heads.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers full sun for best growth and flowering.
90% intensity
Tolerates partial shade.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Ensure good drainage.
60% intensity
Reduce watering in cooler months.
Well-draining soil is essential. Tolerates a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH.
50% intensity
Thrives in moderate temperatures between 15-25°C.
70% intensity
Can tolerate cooler conditions.
Outdoor, Greenhouse
50% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
30% intensity
Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Reduce watering in winter.
Prune to remove spent flower heads to prevent self-seeding if desired. Remove any dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance. Minimal pruning is generally needed.
Propagate by seeds sown directly outdoors in early spring or late autumn. Seeds can also be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Germination is usually straightforward.
Repot young plants in spring if root-bound. Mature plants are best left undisturbed in the ground or a large container. Choose a pot with ample drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Blessed Milkthistle (Silybum marianum)
Where Blessed Milkthistle (Silybum marianum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Silybum |
| Species | Silybum marianum |
Similar in genus Silybum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
