Introduction to Cynara cardunculus: the versatility of the wild artichoke
Cynara cardunculus, popularly known as wild artichoke o edible thistle, is a fascinating plant both for its imposing, thorny appearance and for its wide range of culinary, medicinal, and industrial uses. Native to the Mediterranean basin, this species has been prized since ancient times for its many uses, but it has also been recognized for its invasive potential in various habitats.
In this comprehensive guide you will discover the morphological characteristics’s most emblematic landmarks, the the habitat natural and expansion, the medicinal and nutritional properties, Its traditional and industrial uses, environmental impact, control methods, and all relevant information available in the scientific and popular literature. In addition, contributions from leading specialized sources are integrated to provide a comprehensive and detailed overview, without missing any essential details.
Common names and etymological origin
Cynara cardunculus It is known by a multitude of vernacular names in different languages, reflecting its importance and distribution:
- Spanish: Wild artichoke, edible thistle, Castilian thistle, artichoke, artichoke, artichoke, bulb, bonnet, reef thistle, red thistle, rennet herb, morras, morrillera, penquera, penca.
- English: Cardoon, wild artichoke, artichoke thistle, desert artichoke.
- Portuguese: Cardo-coalhador, cardo-do-coalho, coalha-leite.
- Galician: Arrafiz, callaleite, cardo-do-coalho, cardo presoe.
- Basque: Baratz gardua, kardabera, karloa, karlotxa, kazkar.
- Catalan: Card formatger, cardigot, cardolera, cardot, carxo.
Its scientific name has roots in mythology and classical language: 'Cynara' was the term the Greeks used to describe certain thorny plants, while 'cardunculus' comes from the Latin 'carduus' (thistle), alluding to its appearance.
Taxonomy and botanical classification
- Domain: eukarya
- Kingdom: Plant
- Supergroup: Archaeplastida
- Phylum: Chloroplastida (Streptophyta)
- Class: Magnoliopside
- Order: Asterals
- Family: Compositae (Asteraceae)
- Gender: Cynara
Within the genus Cynara, it is the closest relative to the cultivated artichoke (Cynara scolymus)The taxonomy is under constant review, with recognized subspecies such as Cynara cardunculus var. fierce, common in Macaronesia and the Canary Islands.
Exhaustive morphological description
Cynara cardunculus is a perennial, robust, large and imposing in appearance.
- Level: From 1 to 2 meters, with some variants reaching more than 1,5 m.
- Root: Very deep, pivotal, tuberous, up to 12 cm in diameter (in adult plants), which gives it great resistance to drought.
- Stems: Stout, erect, often branched at the top, covered with thick, sticky bark. They have marked longitudinal grooves and may have short wings beneath the stem leaves.
- Sheets: Large (up to 85 cm long and 30 cm wide, with records reaching up to 1 m in length under optimal conditions), highly divided (pinnatisect to bipinnate), green above and white-tomentose below. The basal leaves are highly developed and form a rosette. They have yellow spines up to 2,3 cm long on the margins and a glaucous hue on the upper surface.
- Inflorescence: Large terminal heads, solitary or in corymbiform groups of 2 to 4. The receptacle is fleshy, surrounded by leathery bracts, oval on the outer ones and narrower on the inner ones, all ending in a robust spine.
- Flowers: Tubular, violet or deep blue, hermaphroditic, pentamerous, attractive to various pollinators.
- Fruits: Obovoid achenes, elongated, 6 to 8 mm, with longitudinal striations and a long pappus of white feathery hairs that facilitate dispersal by wind.
Among its most characteristic features are the strong leaf dimorphism between basal leaves (entire or slightly divided) and cauline leaves (more divided and sessile), and its dense woolly indumentum on the underside of the leaves, which allows it to withstand intense sunlight and arid conditions.
Natural habitat and ecology
Cynara cardunculus It is originally from the mediterranean basin and Macaronesia, but has expanded, naturalizing or becoming wild in numerous countries, especially in abandoned agricultural areas, roads, roadsides, wastelands, pastures and disturbed fields.
- Altitude: From sea level to altitudes above 500 m, although in specific areas, such as the BajÃo in Mexico, it has been observed between 1650 and 2220 m.
- Types of soil: Highly adaptable, it thrives in alkaline, calcareous, nitrified soils with good water retention capacity. It prefers light, deep, fertile soils, although it can grow in clay and sandy soils. It tolerates alkaline soils and can survive in relatively dry environments thanks to its deep root system.
- Climate: It prefers Mediterranean climates with mild winters and dry summers, but can withstand low temperatures in winter; however, it is sensitive to intense and prolonged frosts.
- Exhibition: It requires good light and does not tolerate shade.
- Plant associations: It is found in ruderal communities, roadsides, vacant lots, and anthropized ecosystems, although in regions such as the Canary Islands it is found in cardonal-tabaibal areas.
The plant exhibits characteristic phytosociological behavior and is often a good indicator of soils rich in bases, nitrogen, and mechanically disturbed. Its biological cycle as hemicryptophyte It allows it to withstand unfavorable conditions by protecting its buds at ground level.
- Natural and secondary distribution zones:
- Europe: Western Mediterranean, Southern France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Balearic Islands.
- Africa: North of Africa.
- Macaronesia: Canary Islands, Madeira.
- America: Introduced and naturalized in Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Mexico and especially California (USA).
- Australia: Introduced, it behaves as an invader in certain regions.
In all these areas, the edible thistle has demonstrated a high colonization capacity, especially in environments altered by human action.
Phenology and biological cycle
Cynara cardunculus It is a perennial plant whose life cycle can be divided into two major phases:
- First year: Development of a basal rosette of large leaves, accumulating reserves in the root.
- Following years: Starting in spring, it produces flower stalks that can reach up to two meters in height. Flowering occurs late (late spring and summer). Under natural conditions, the plant blooms primarily from June to July, although this may vary depending on latitude and local climate.
- Reproduction: It is mainly carried out by seed (anemocory, wind dispersal), although it can also regenerate vegetatively by means of buds at the base of the taproot.
- Pollination: Entomophilous, that is, carried out by pollinating insects attracted by its large and showy flowers.
During the winter, the above-ground part can dry out completely due to extreme temperatures or drought, but the root remains alive, ensuring regrowth in the next favorable season. The longevity of its seeds and their ability to germinate in disturbed soils partly explain its invasive success.
Medicinal properties and active ingredients
Cynara cardunculus It has a remarkable spectrum of medicinal properties, recognized both in folk medicine and in scientific studies:
- Sheets: Used to prepare infusions or extracts with Choleretic, cholagogue, diuretic, digestive, anti-edematous, anti-cholesterolemic and anti-sclerotic actionThe most notable active ingredients are cynarin (1-3 discaffeylquinic acid), caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, neochlorogenic acid, and cynaropicrin (sesquiterpene lactone). It also contains flavonoids (cynaroside, scolymoside, cinnaratrioside), mucilage, tannins, and vitamin A.
- Root: Used as a diuretic and to help with liver diseases.
- Flowers: They have emollient properties and are used in decoction form for skin problems and liver conditions.
- Seeds: The extracted oil has been traditionally used to support liver problems, menstrual disorders, and, externally, for dermatitis and eczema.
Current studies highlight the action of phenolic compounds (flavonoids and phenolic acids) as effective antioxidants. In addition, inulin present in the capitula and bracts is a prebiotic of interest in diets for diabetics.
The plant's fresh juice has also been used in the external treatment of eczema and skin rashes. Folk medicine especially values ​​its use for lowering blood sugar and alleviating symptoms of jaundice.
Nutritional properties
The edible thistle and the wild artichoke have important nutritional values, especially in their stalks and flower heads:
- Low Calorie Content: Approximately 17 kcal per 100 g of edible part.
- Rich in fiber: Promotes digestive health and intestinal transit.
- High inulin content: A non-assimilable polysaccharide that does not raise blood glucose levels, ideal for people with diabetes.
- Vitamins: A, C, B1, B2, B3, B6, E.
- Minerals: Potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and small amounts of iron and zinc.
- Antioxidants: Polyphenols, flavonoids and phenolic acids.
The parts consumed (stalks, stems, bracts and inflorescence receptacle) are considered tasty and beneficial to health, and are recommended for inclusion in low-calorie, detoxifying diets and as a functional food.
Culinary and traditional uses
In Mediterranean gastronomy and from other regions where it has become naturalized, Cynara cardunculus plays a prominent role:
- Leaves or stems: They are blanched and cooked in stews, omelets, casseroles, rice dishes, casseroles, and salads, after removing the thorniest parts.
- Flower heads: Consumed in a similar way to cultivated artichokes, in salads, fried, battered or cooked.
- Dried flowers: Used in the production of traditional cheeses as vegetable rennet for its coagulating power (flower cheeses, half-flower cheeses, "Serra da Estrela", "Castelo Branco", "Torta del Casar", "Queso de La Serena", "Flor de GuÃa").
- Seeds: Its oil is used in human food, in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries, and as biodiesel.
- Vegetable fiber: The hairs of the receptacle and pappus contain a large amount of cellulose, with potential applications in the manufacture of high-quality paper and as a natural thermal insulator.
A traditional method for making vegetable rennet involves harvesting the flowers at their peak, drying them in the shade, removing the pistils, and macerating them in water to extract the coagulating enzymes. This water is used to curdle milk in the production of artisanal cheeses.
Furthermore, the seeds They have been used as food for poultry and pigeons, and the plant has occasionally served as fodder for livestock.
Industrial applications and biotechnological potential
In recent decades, the use of Cynara cardunculus , the energy and biomass crops for arid areas and as a source of fiber, biomaterials and biofuels:
- Biodiesel and bioethanol: The seed oil is comparable in quality to sunflower oil and is used to produce biodiesel. Above-ground biomass can be used to produce bioethanol.
- Paper and Bioplastics: The high cellulose content of the stems and pappus opens up the possibility of using them in the paper industry and in the production of bioplastics and other sustainable materials.
- Natural absorbents: The pith of the stems can be used as a water-absorbing material and as insulation in ecological construction.
However, it has been noted that its tendency to become wild and behave as an invader must be monitored, especially outside its area of ​​origin.
Ecological impact and status as an invasive species
Cynara cardunculus, due to its vigor, anemochorous dispersal capacity and resistance to adverse conditions, is considered Invasive species in numerous regions where it has been introduced:
- Compete for resources: At high densities, it displaces native flora and reduces local biodiversity, especially in grasslands, semi-arid areas, and abandoned farmlands.
- Reduce the passage of animals: Its dense growth and strong thorns make movement of wildlife and livestock difficult.
- Negative effects on agriculture: It has been reported to affect potato, wheat, and alfalfa crops in Argentina, and to be a serious problem for livestock in California and other areas with a Mediterranean climate.
- High eradication costs: Controlling and eradicating feral populations can be very costly.
In some countries, such as Argentina and several regions of Australia, it is declared a pest, and its control is mandatory. In California, it is legally regulated as a noxious weed, and there are specific recommendations for its management.
Control and management methods
Control of Cynara cardunculus depends on the extent of the infestation and the type of ecosystem affected:
- Chemical control: Phenoxide herbicides (such as Picloram, MCPA, 2,4-D, glyphosate, dicamba) are used with varying success, especially in seedling control and agricultural land preparation.
- mechanical control: Deep tillage, manual uprooting or continuous mechanical clearing can reduce population density, although the taproot makes complete eradication difficult.
- Biologic control: Experimental in some regions; involves the use of specialized herbivores or natural pathogens.
In sensitive or protected areas, it is preferable to employ integrated methods that minimize collateral environmental impact.
Varieties and cultivars
There are different wild and cultivated varieties, including Cynara cardunculus var. fierce, endemic to the Canary Islands and Madeira, recognizable by its greater number and length of spines.
Cultivated varieties for consumption usually have larger heads and fewer spines than wild varieties, which makes them easier to handle and use in cooking.
Curiosities and popular culture
- According to Greek mythology, the plant's name comes from a young woman transformed into an artichoke by Zeus out of jealousy.
- Traditionally, it has been attributed aphrodisiac and liver-protective properties.
- The plant is very present in the culinary culture of Mediterranean countries, with typical recipes associated with the cardoon existing in Spain, Italy, Portugal, and France.
- The dried flower has been used as vegetable rennet in cheese making, being one of the few species used worldwide for this purpose.
Conservation and Threat Category
In areas of its native distribution, such as Spain and the Mediterranean region, Cynara cardunculus It is not threatened and is classified as Least Concern (LC)However, in some wild regions, their population trends may be worrying due to their ecological impact.
The main threats to the species in its native range may arise from changes in agricultural practices, the loss of ruderal habitats, and the intensification of land use, although it is not considered globally vulnerable.
Relationship of Cynara cardunculus with other species and its comparison with the artichoke
Cynara cardunculus is the wild species, while the cultivated artichoke (Cynara scolymus) has been developed through selection over the centuries. There are notable morphological differences:
- Cultivated artichokes have larger flower heads and generally lack thorns on their bracts, making them more suitable for fresh human consumption.
- Wild thistle has a higher content of bitter compounds and thorns, but is more resistant to adverse conditions.
Glossary of botanical terms
- Perennial: Plant that lives more than two years.
- Pivoting: Main root that grows vertically downwards.
- Pinnatisecta: Leaves deeply divided into segments on both sides of a central axis.
- Bipinnate: Additional division of pinnate leaves.
- Tomentoso: Covered with a layer of soft, dense hair.
- Inflorescence: Group of flowers grouped on a stem.
- Vilano: Feathery structure in the seed that allows its dispersal by wind.
- Anemochory: Seed dispersal by wind action.
Bibliography and additional resources
- Scientific articles: Current studies on ecological values, dispersal, biochemistry and industrial applications (Midolo et al., Tichý et al., Lososová Z. et al.).
- Monographs and manuals: Flora of the BajÃo, Flora of the Canary Islands, Weed Manual, Catalogue of Weeds of Mexico.
- International databases: Missouri Botanical Garden, ITIS/CONABIO, Global Biodiversity Information Facility, USDA PLANTS.
For images and technical descriptions, we recommend consulting resources such as CalFlora, Digital Flora of Texas, and galleries specializing in Mediterranean flora.
Cynara cardunculus is a fascinating, versatile, and useful species that has transcended the wild to become a globally important culinary, medicinal, and industrial resource. Proper study and management allow us to take advantage of its benefits while minimizing the risks it can pose as an invasive plant in ecosystems outside its original range.
