100 days. Silybum marianum. Annual/Biennial. Open Pollinated. Milk Thistle. The plant produces high yields of spiny green leaves, marbled in white, and crowned with brilliant purple flowers. The plant's species name, marianum, refers to the Virgin Mary because the white mottling on the leaf is said to be her tears. Used in salads, smoothies, or steamed. Use young leaves cooked or in spring salads, remove spines first. Flower stalks put out large purple thistle flowers that were eaten like artichokes. Milk thistle is a favorite in the wellness world for its natural healing properties. Silymarin, found in the flowers and seeds, has been used to strengthen and regenerate liver tissue. The Greek physician and botanist Dioscorides (40–90 AD) was the first to describe milk thistle's healing properties. Later, in 1597, John Gerard noted that milk thistle was the best remedy against melancholy diseases. Silymarin, derived from milk thistle, is the most commonly used liver protectant (hepatoprotectant) by patients in gastrointestinal clinics in the USA. In Germany, where the government regulates herbal medicine use, milk thistle has been listed in the Commission E monograph for the treatment of dyspepsia, cirrhosis, and liver damage due to toxins. Milk thistle requires little maintenance and thrives in poor, well-drained soil. Also known as Blessed Milk Thistle and Mary Thistle. Drought Tolerant. Heat Tolerant. An excellent choice for home gardens. United States Department of Agriculture, NA 47041. A variety from the Mediterranean region.
Seed per Pound: 32,000
Plant Height: 3 to 5 ft tall.
Sunlight: Full Sun
Planting Instructions: Plant seeds ¼" deep.
Soil Facts: Requires a well-prepared soil. Use a general-purpose fertilizer when preparing the soil. Do not overwater.
Germination: 12-18 days
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