Carlina acaulis subsp. simplex

Carlina acaulis subsp. simplex, also known as the Short-stemmed Carline or the Alpine Carline, is a rare and beautiful species of thistle, forming a large rosette of very spiny, dark greenish-grey leaves supported by a very short stem. From late spring to mid-summer, this perennial produces a single head from its centre. This head bears a fluffy cream to beige centre and is adorned with numerous silver-white bracts that reflect light like tiny mirrors. This flower-plant is a treasure for dry, infertile, stony soil. It is ideal for rock gardens. Its flowers are perfect for dried bouquets.

The stemless carline belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to southern and eastern Europe, where it grows on arid mountain slopes. This thistle is accustomed to well-drained, sunny, poor, and limestone soils. It is an herbaceous perennial with a limited lifespan, presenting a 50cm (20in) wide rosette habit. Flowering occurs from May-June to August-September. The plant develops a 20 to 40cm (8 to 16in) tall stem in the centre of each rosette, with a collar of leaves at its end, directly supporting a 'flower' of an 8 to 10cm (3 to 4in) diameter head. The fluffy central disk is surrounded by tough, papyraceous bracts of a white-silver colour. This head closes when the weather is humid or rainy. The fruit is a hairy achene topped with feathery bristles. The semi-evergreen foliage is composed of long, spreading, glabrous leaves, slightly villous on the underside, sometimes 30cm (12in) long, with deeply cut edges and sharp spines. This plant has a taproot that firmly anchors it in stony terrain.

This remarkably sculptural plant combines beautifully with other rock garden perennials such as blue fescue, creeping sedums, dwarf wormwoods, or small lavenders. The stemless Carlina Simplex creates a unique effect in alpine troughs and other containers. One can take inspiration from nature by placing it along paths, at the edge of groves, in light deciduous, coniferous, or mixed woodlands, in dry meadows, or on rocky slopes. It can be included in dried bouquets. In the past, dried flowers were used as barometers.