Appendix B

Edible and Medicinal Plants

Thistle

Thistle
Cirsium species

Description: This plant may grow as high as 1.5 meters (5 feet). Its leaves are long-pointed, deeply lobed, and prickly.

Habitat and Distribution: Thistles grow worldwide in dry woods and fields.

Edible Parts: Peel the stalks, cut them into short sections, and boil them before eating. The roots are edible raw or cooked.

CAUTION

Some thistle species are poisonous.

Other Uses: Twist the tough fibers of the stems to make a strong twine.

Survival index

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