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Annual Biennial

Carthamus tinctorius

false saffron

An erect, branching annual to 60cm, with spiny leaves and vivid orange or yellow, thistle-like flower-heads with prominent green bracts

Other common names
American saffron
bastard saffron
see moredyer's saffron
fake saffron
rouge plant
safflower
safflower oil plant
saffron thistle
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Orange Yellow Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Spreading branched
Genus

Carthamus can be annuals or perennials, with pinnately lobed, spiny-toothed leaves and thistle-like orange or yellow flower-heads in summer

Name status

Correct

Plant range
W Asia

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in any light, well-drained soil in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in gentle heat from early to late spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Cut back after flowering

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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