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Thistle, Common Star | | Name : | Thistle, Common Star | | Botanical : | Centaurea Colcitrapa | | Family : | Compositae | | Parts Used : | Herb, seeds, root. | | Habitat : | South-east England. | | Description : | The stem is branched, not winged, like most of the true Thistles; the lower leaves are much cut into, almost to the midrib, but the uppermost are merely toothed or with entire margins. On the flowerheads are long sharp spines, 1/2 inch to 1 inch long. The flowers themselves are pale, purplish rose, the ray florets no longer than the central ones. The plant is a dull green, somewhat hairy, and flowers in July.
The specific name of this species is due to the resemblance of the flower-head to the Caltrops, or iron ball covered with spikes, formerly used for throwing under horses' feet to lame them on a field of battle.
It is a troublesome weed to agriculturists in certain districts, and is only eradicated by breaking up the ground. | | Uses : | The seeds used to be made into powder and drunk in wine as a remedy for stone, and the powdered root was considered a cure for fistula and gravel. |
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