Perennial Sow Thistle
Taken at Musselburgh on 13th August 2017 using Panasonic Lumix LX5 in macro mode.
Fact File



 




Taken at Ardmore Point on 15th September 2017 using Panasonic Lumix LX5 in macro mode. Fact File
Perennial Sow Thistle.
Species:
Order:
Family:
Habit:
AKA:
Sonchus arvensis.
Asterales.
Asteraceae.
Perennial herb.
Gutweed
Habitat:
Blooms:
Height:
Feature:

Waste ground, river and stream margins, roadsides.
July - October
Up to 1.5 mts tall.
The leaves are used as a poultice and are said to have anti-inflammatory properties. An infusion of the leaves has been used in the treatment of caked breasts. A tea made from the roots is used in the treatment of asthma, coughs and other chest complaints. A tea made from the leaves is said to calm the nerves.