Milk Thistle Seeds - Herbal Plant

Milk thistle is a hardy, herbaceous plant known for its upright growth and distinctive, spiny leaves with variegated patterns. It forms a robust rosette before sending up tall stems that produce rounded flower heads during the growing season. This plant grows well in warm to temperate climates and performs best in full sun with well-drained soil. Milk thistle adapts to garden beds and naturalized planting, establishing steadily and tolerating a range of soil conditions.

Features

• Upright plant with bold, spiny foliage
• Distinctive variegated leaf patterns
• Forms rosette before flowering stems develop
• Suitable for warm and temperate climates
• Adaptable to garden beds and naturalized areas

Specifications

• Scientific name: Silybum marianum
• Common name (US): Milk Thistle
• Seed type / variety: Open-pollinated
• Growth habit: Upright, herbaceous annual or biennial
• USDA zones: 6–10
• Planting season: Spring and fall
• Growing season: Spring to summer
• Sowing Season: February to April, September to October
• Germination time and conditions: 10–20 days at 18–24°C
• Sunlight requirements: Full sun
• Soil requirements: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil
• Watering needs: Low to moderate, drought-tolerant once established
• Mature plant size: 90–150 cm height, 60–90 cm spread
• Plant spacing: 45–60 cm between plants