Stemless carlina thistle
Carlina acaulis · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant stemless carlina thistle: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, grey-green, spiny
- Flowering
- June to September, pale pink to violet flowers
- Mature size
- 5–15 cm tall, 20–40 cm diameter
- Growth
- Slow
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (zones 3 to 8)
- Origin
- Alps and mountains of central Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, rocky, poor to average
Care
Exposure
Place your Carlina in full sun, with a minimum of 6 hours per day. This alpine plant dislikes shade and thrives in well-ventilated environments. A south or west-facing position is ideal to encourage flowering.
Watering
Water moderately during the growing season (spring-summer), letting the soil dry out between waterings. In winter, reduce watering drastically: Carlina hates stagnant moisture and roots can rot. Prefer dry soil to wet soil.
Soil and planting
Prepare a very well-drained substrate based on mineral soil, gravel or coarse sand mixed with minimal potting compost. Carlina tolerates poor and rocky soils, typical of its mountain habitat. Avoid heavy clay and persistent moisture at all costs.
Fertilizer
Apply a balanced, highly diluted fertilizer once or twice in spring, or refrain from adding any if your soil is already mineral-rich. This alpine plant doesn't require generous feeding and risks losing hardiness and character with excess nutrition.
Pruning and cleanup
Simply remove faded flowers to extend blooming and maintain a compact shape. In late autumn or early spring, remove dead or damaged foliage. No formal pruning required.
Diseases and pests
Carlina is very resistant to pests when well-drained. Excessive moisture promotes root rot: respect a dry winter dormancy. Occasionally check for slugs or snails in spring.
Did you know?
Carlina acaulis was revered in the Middle Ages: its roots were believed to possess magical and protective properties. Its Latin name derives from Charlemagne, who reportedly discovered its virtues during an epidemic. The flower dries beautifully and retains its silvery petals for a long time, making it a highly prized witch's flower in traditional herbalism.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.