Pettable Thistle

Day 276: While we're on the subject of weeds, it might surprise you to learn that although most thistles in the area are introduced species, there are some natives and not all are as prickly as they appear to be: case in point (forgive the pun), Cirsium edule, the Pacific Northwest's unique "pettable" edible.

As its common name suggests, the stems of the plant are edible, but must first be peeled of their tough outer layer. You'll find that Edible Thistle's thorny leaves are remarkably soft for all of its spiky appearance. Although I wouldn't suggest grabbing them with any amount of force, you can easily stroke them from base to tip or roll them in your fingers without fear of getting poked. Likewise, if you'd like to pat Cirsium edule on its head, you'll only detect stiffness in those purple spines, not a penetrating sharpness. This friendly native thistle is all bluster and bluff until it dries out in the fall (but then, we all get a little crabbier as we get older).