Milk Thistle

Milk Thistle, is a striking, robust plant with bold pink-purple flowers and glossy green and white-marbled leaves. Growing up to 6 feet tall, this hardy perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an excellent addition to any garden or herb patch. Its beautiful flowers not only attract pollinators like bees and butterflies but also add a touch of drama to the landscape. Known for its medicinal properties, Milk Thistle is revered for its ability to support liver health, making it a must-have for those interested in natural wellness. The plant is highly resilient, able to withstand poor soil and drought conditions, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners. Its seeds can be harvested and used in herbal remedies or teas, while its leaves offer a unique texture and striking color contrast in floral arrangements or as a garnish. With its bold presence and multiple benefits, Milk Thistle marianum is a versatile plant that brings both beauty and functionality to any space.

Also Known As: Silybum Marianum, Blessed Thistle, Mary Thistle, Holy Thistle, St. Mary's Thistle, Wild Artichoke, Scotch Thistle, Marian Thistle, European Milk Thistle, Common Milk Thistle, Milk Thistle Herb.

Plant Name:	Milk Thistle
Latin Name:	Silybum marianum
Days to Germinate:	7-14
Days to Bloom:	90-120
Plant Height:	5 - 6 Feet
Spread:	4 - 5 Feet
Bloom Diameter:	1 - 3 Inches
Growth Habit:	Bush
USDA Zones:	5-10
Lifespan:	Annual, Biennial
Brand:	TomorrowSeeds
Sunlight:	Full Sun, Partial Shade
Pollination:	Heirloom, Open-Pollinated
GMO:	No
Fungicide-Treated Seeds*:	No
Seeds Packed For**:	2025

*Fungicide-treated seeds protect the seedlings from diseases until they are up and growing. Do not eat treated seeds.
**Seeds are freshly packed for the growing season of the year listed. Seeds are still viable beyond pack date. Store in a cool and dry location such as the refrigerator or basement to best preserve germination rates.

Planting Instructions:

Soil Preparation:

Choose an area with heavy, well-draining soil that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Remove weeds, large rocks, and litter from the planting area. Leave small weeds and dead grass, they will enrich the soil when turned under. Spade or till the soil 6-8 inches deep. Loosening the soil will help the plant establish strong roots. If the soil is heavy or clay-like, mix in some sand or compost to improve drainage. Optionally, form rows of soil beds 4-6 inches high and at least 3 feet apart. This formation of ridges will help with drainage, ensure good airflow, and make harvesting for cut flowers easier.

Planting:

Plant Milk Thistle seeds directly outdoors in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked (soil temperature is least 50F). Transplanting is not recommended. Scatter the seeds over the prepared soil surface and lightly press them 1/2 inch into the soil or cover seeds thinly with soil. Gently water after planting. Once seedlings emerge, plants can separated and spaced 2-3 feet apart to allow room for mature plants to spread and prevent overcrowding.

Planting Depth:	1/2 inch
Within-Row Spacing:	2-3 feet
Between-Row Spacing:	3 feet

Care During the Season:

Dandelions are hardy, low-maintenance plants that thrive in a variety of soil conditions. During the growing season, they should be watered regularly, particularly during dry spells, but avoid overwatering as they are drought-tolerant once established. Fertilizing isn’t necessary for dandelions, as they grow well in average soil, but applying compost can promote strong growth. Regularly deadhead spent flowers to prevent excessive seed spreading if you don't want them to take over your garden. Dandelions can be invasive, so if you want to keep them under control, remove any unwanted plants before they set seeds.

Harvesting:

Milk Thistle prefers moderate watering, ensuring the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry periods. As a hardy plant, it is quite tolerant of drought once established. However, regular watering during the growing season promotes healthy growth and vibrant foliage. Milk Thistle benefits from occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer in spring to support its development. Keep an eye out for any weeds that may compete for nutrients and remove them promptly. Deadheading spent flowers encourages continued blooming, while leaving the seed heads intact attracts wildlife. As the plant matures, ensure that it has enough space to spread out, as it can grow up to 4-6 feet tall and wide.