Blackthistle
Blackthistles are a common annual wildflower valued for tea made from its leaves and flowers. It also features frequently as a motif in decorative art due to its striking appearance.
Basic Information
Biological Traits
Flowers begin as vivid purple and darken into deep violet-black or indigo, and consist of a 2" squat cone surrounded by three to four rings of violet-black, spiked sepals in a six-pointed star shape; deep indigo narrow petals bloom from the top half of the cone.
Genetics and Reproduction
Self-seeding
Ecology and Habitats
Prefers well-drained soil and an arid climate; most often found in rock crevices and meadows.
Biological Cycle
Blooms in the Season of Ripening and seeds in the Season of Waiting.
Additional Information
Uses, Products & Exploitation
Flowers and leaves are dried and either made into tea by themselves, or added to other tea blends. The leaves give a rooty flavor, while the flowers give a peppery flavor and a sweet aroma. Some variants of sweetwater are made with fresh flowers, which lend a mild herbal taste and less pepper.
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