Cirsium acaule - Dwarf thistle

Cirsium acaule, also known as dwarf thistle, is a low -growing, persistent plant from the family of the Asteraceae. This species is widespread in Europe, especially in calcareous soils and meadows. Cirsium acaule is of interest due to its unique growth form and its ecological importance in various habitats.

Morphology

The most striking property of Cirsium acaule is its missing or extremely short stem, which gives the plant its German name "Stangenose scratch tistula". Instead, the plant forms a basic rosette of highly serrated, spiky leaves. These leaves are dark green and can reach a length of up to 20 centimeters. The leaf edges are deeply loved, with sharp, thorny tips that protect the plant from the predators.

The flower heads of the dwarf thistle are individually and sit directly on the leaf rosette or on a very short stem. The flowers are purple and consist of numerous tube -shaped single flowers, which are summarized in a compact flower basket. The flowering period ranges from June to September, and the flowers attract a variety of pollinators, especially bees, butterflies and beetles.

The fruits of the plant are small, brown ohines that have a cardboard (flying hair) that enables the seed to be spread from the wind. This contributes to the widespread distribution of the species in suitable habitats.

Ecology and distribution

Cirsium acaule is widespread in large parts of Europe, from Great Britain to Central Europe to parts of Southeast Europe. The plant prefers dry, limed floors and often occurs in dry lawn, on lime -grass grass, on the edge of the path and in light forests. It thrives up to about 2,000 meters at altitudes.

The dwarf thistle plays an important role in its ecosystems. Their flowers offer a valuable source of food for a variety of insects, especially pollinators, which are dependent on such resources in the often nutrient -poor habitats in which the plant occurs. In addition, the plant contributes to the stabilization of the floor due to its deep roots and promotes soil fertility by decomposing its organic material.

Adjustments and survival strategies

Cirsium acaule's morphology is well adapted to the hard conditions of your habitat. The basic leaf rosette enables the plant to stay near the ground, which helps her to preserve moisture and be protected from strong wind. The spines on the leaves and flower heads offer effective protection against herbivores, which is particularly advantageous in the open, grassy habitats.

The plant also shows a remarkable ability to grow vegetative. In addition to seed production, it can spread over her roots, which can lead to dense stocks. This is particularly important in areas where the competition for resources is intensive.

Meaning for nature conservation

Cirsium acaule is a key species in dry and limestone grass, which are among the most diverse and at the same time endangered habitats in Europe. The preservation of this plant is closely linked to the protection of these habitats, which are threatened by intensification of agriculture, development and reforestation. In some regions, the dwarf thistle is therefore the goal of protective measures that aim to maintain and promote their stocks.

Use and cultural importance

While Cirsium acaule has no great economic importance, the plant is occasionally used in wild flower mixtures for the system of natural gardens or to renaturate lean grass. Your attractive flower shape and robustness make you a suitable way for such projects.

In folk medicine, the plant was traditionally used in some regions, especially for the treatment of skin problems and digestive disorders. However, modern scientific evidence for these applications is limited.