Japanese thistle (Cirsium japonicum, Prodr. 6: 640 (1838))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: DC.

Bibliography: Prodr. 6: 640 (1838)

Year: 1838

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Cirsium

Vegetable: False

Observations: China to Japan

Description

The Japanese thistle, scientifically known as Cirsium japonicum, is an intriguing plant species belonging to the Asteraceae family. This vibrant thistle has captivated botanists and plant enthusiasts alike with its unique characteristics and widespread distribution across East Asia.

Recognized by the renowned botanist DC. in his 1838 publication, Prodr. 6: 640, Cirsium japonicum stands as a testament to the rich botanical diversity found within the region stretching from China to Japan. The plant thrives in these areas, adapting well to various environmental conditions and contributing to the local ecology.

The Japanese thistle is distinguished by its striking purple flower heads, which bloom in a visually appealing, spherical cluster. These flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, making the plant an essential component of its ecosystem. Beyond its ecological importance, the plant holds ornamental value, often cultivated for its aesthetic appeal in gardens and landscapes.

The foliage of Cirsium japonicum is equally noteworthy. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a characteristic spiny texture, a common trait among thistles. These features not only add to the plant’s visual interest but also play a role in its defense mechanism against herbivores.

In traditional medicine, the Japanese thistle has been utilized for its potential health benefits. Herbalists have employed parts of the plant for their purported anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties, although modern scientific validation for these uses remains limited.

Overall, Cirsium japonicum serves as a fascinating example of botanical resilience and beauty. Its enduring presence from China to Japan highlights the plant’s adaptability and significance within the natural world. Whether appreciated for its ecological contributions, medicinal potential, or sheer beauty, the Japanese thistle continues to be a subject of admiration and study.

Common Names

Eng: japanese thistle, tiger thistle, no-azami
Fra: cirse du japon
Deu: jananische kratzdistel
En: Japanese thistle, Tiger thistle, No-azami
Fi: Japaninohdake
Fr: Cirse du Japon
De: Jananische Kratzdistel

Synonyms

• Cnicus japonicus ((DC.) Maxim.)
• Carduus japonicus ((DC.) Franch.)
• Carduus eriophorus (Thunb.)

Distribution

• China North-Central (native)
• China South-Central (native)
• China Southeast (native)
• Inner Mongolia (native)
• Japan (native)
• Korea (native)
• Qinghai (native)
• Taiwan (native)
• Vietnam (native)
• Poland (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Aug 17, 2022 by 省三 小谷 (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3112887)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:195527-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Cirsium japonicum (Thunb.) Fisch. ex DC.)

Specifications

Growth