Carlina corymbosa, commonly known as the clustered carline thistle, is an herbaceous perennial plant native to the Mediterranean region, including southern Europe and North Africa. It thrives in open, sunny habitats such as coastal areas, garigue, maquis shrublands, and dry, rocky hillsides. This species is well-adapted to the Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. It typically grows at altitudes ranging from sea level to approximately 3,937 feet (1,200 meters). Carlina corymbosa reaches a height of 4-35 inches with a thick, erect, green to whitish stem that is nearly leafless. The foliage consists of alternate, sessile or amplexicaul lobed leaves with spiny margins, which form a basal rosette. The plant produces striking yellow flowers, 0.8-1.4 inches in diameter, from June to August. These blooms are surrounded by thorny bracts, which contribute to the plant’s ornamental value and are highly attractive to pollinating insects.

The clustered carline thistle is valued for its drought tolerance and its ability to thrive in poor, well-drained soils, making it suitable for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It requires minimal maintenance once established and is often used in naturalistic plantings. In cultivation, it prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate a range of soil types, as long as they are well-drained. While not commonly grown, it can be an interesting addition to a garden for its unique appearance and resilience.CC BY-SA 4.0