African Thistle (Berkheya Rigida) is a perennial herb in the Asteraceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires drought-tolerant watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Berkheya rigida is a perennial thistle native to southern Africa, characterized by stiff, woody stems and thick, leathery leaves.

African Thistle

African Thistle

Berkheya Rigida

Berkheya rigida is a perennial thistle native to southern Africa, characterized by stiff, woody stems and thick, leathery leaves.

Quick Facts

Type
herb
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
drought-tolerant
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
9-11

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
Non-Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:sandy, loamy, rocky
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for African Thistle

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

African Thistle
African Thistle detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Asteraceae
Genus:Berkheya