Despite their undemanding nature and tolerance to drought, some thistle species have become so rare that they are protected. We clarify what they are, how you can recognize the plants and whether you can cultivate them in the garden.
Which thistles are protected in Germany?
In Germany, two species of thistle are protected: the Alpine man litter (Eryngium alpinum) and the silver thistle (Carlina acaulis). They are protected because they have become rare in some areas due to human removal and habitat changes.
Which thistles are protected?
Two species of thistles are protected in Germany:
- The metallic blue floweringAlpen Mannstreu (Eryngium alpinum) and
- the silvery radiantsilver thistle (Carlina acaulis).
Why are these thistles protected?
In some areas these thistles areonly very rarely found anymore Not only have too many of the prickly beauties been taken by humans, but also the conversion of poor areas into forest or intensive Grassland has contributed to the disappearance of thistles.
What does the protected Alpen Mannstreu look like?
The Alpine thistle, native to Central Europe, grows to an impressiveeighty centimeters highand forms an impressive flower stalk with its slightlybluish, strong flower stalks with the blue collar Sight.
The flowering period of the Alpine Mannstreu, which is only native to the Alpine region, extends from July to September. In autumn, the ripe seeds fall off along with the flower heads and are then spread by the wind.
What does the protected silver thistle look like?
Theflower centerof this previously widespread perennial issurrounded in a radiating shape by shimmering silvery-white petals The interior is formed by hundreds of very densely packed tubular flowers, which can only be pollinated by insects with long proboscis such as bees, bumblebees or butterflies.
Even before rain falls, the silver leaves of this alpine flower close as the humidity increases. That's why the silver thistle is considered an important weather messenger for hikers and mountaineers.
Can you cultivate protected thistles in the garden?
Both types of thistlecan besurprisinglyeasily maintained in the garden. This is also permitted provided you do not take the plants from nature. You can get perennials from any well-stocked nursery.
You can harvest seeds from these after they have bloomed and propagate the thistles yourself, which have become rare in nature.
Tip
The protected silver thistle as a medicinal plant
The healing effects of silver thistle have been forgotten by modern medicine. Remedies obtained from the ground roots have an antibiotic, diuretic, diaphoretic and antispasmodic effect. They have long been used successfully for colds and as a laxative.
