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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 saffronbastard saffron
see moredyer's saffron
fake saffron
rouge plant
safflower
safflower oil plant
saffron thistle
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Orange Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Native to the UK
- 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
Get involved
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