Illyrian Thistle (Onopordum Illyricum) is a biennial herb in the Asteraceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires low watering and full sun light in USDA hardiness zones 7-10. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Onopordum illyricum is a biennial herbaceous plant known for its spiny stems and leaves, with purple flowers, commonly found in Mediterranean climates.

Illyrian Thistle

Illyrian Thistle

Onopordum Illyricum

Onopordum illyricum is a biennial herbaceous plant known for its spiny stems and leaves, with purple flowers, commonly found in Mediterranean climates.

Quick Facts

Type
herb
Lifecycle
biennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
Low
Light
Full Sun
Hardiness Zones
7-10

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
Non-Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:sandy, loamy, rocky
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:specimen, pollinator attractor, barrier plant

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Illyrian 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

Illyrian Thistle
Illyrian Thistle detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Asteraceae
Genus:Onopordum