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Milk Thistle

Silybum marianum, Asteraceae

Zones
3a–10b
Layer
Herbaceous
Lifespan
Annual
Growth
Fast

Guild Roles

ProducerPollinator Attractor

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (optimal)

Water

Low

Soil pH

5 – 8

Tolerances

Drought
Frost
Heat
Pest Resistance
Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Winter SavorySatureja montana
Pest DeterrentBeneficial Insect Habitat
BurdockArctium lappa
Beneficial Insect Habitat
Sweet CornZea mays var. saccharata
Beneficial Insect HabitatNutrient Accumulation
California PoppyEschscholzia californica
Wind ProtectionBeneficial Insect Habitat

Antagonistic Plants

Flat-Leaf ParsleyPetroselinum crispum var. neapolitanum

Milk thistle's large size and spiny nature compete with and crowd out smaller herbs

Uses

Functions

Medicine

Edible Parts

Seeds

Common Questions

What zones does Milk Thistle grow in?

Milk Thistle grows in USDA hardiness zones 3a through 10b.

What are good companion plants for Milk Thistle?

Good companions for Milk Thistle include Winter Savory, Burdock, Sweet Corn, California Poppy.

Design guilds with Milk Thistle and see companion relationships visually.

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