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Cirsium edule
Cirsium edule is native to the Pacific Northwest. The roots and young shoots are edible.
Spotted in a sub-alpine meadow. 5400 ft a.s.l.
Edible thistle is used by Native Americans for its edible roots and young shoots. The roots are sweet, but contain inulin, which gives some people digestive problems. (Wikipedia)
Spotted on Aug 3, 2019
Submitted on Aug 11, 2019
5 Comments
I might give some a nibble to test their effects. We have Helianthus tuberosus which is rich in inulin and I have eaten them many times with no ill effect.
I know it seems harmless enough. I would still want to research it more. But the thistle that you have in Minnesota - I have no idea of their edibleness. If you decide to try some though please let me know what you think of it.
Why would you be leery of it? The inulin?
No I haven't Gary. I would be very leery of it.
Have you tried this plant? I wonder if other thistles with large roots are also edible.