How to identify the black star

1. Appearance Identification

The blackthorn is a perennial herb that can reach a height of about 70 cm and a diameter of about 1.2 cm. The plant is relatively slender, and is densely covered with soft, light yellow hairs when it is first born, which then fall off.

2. Leaf identification

The leaves are arranged in a rosette shape and are kidney-shaped, about 9 to 13 cm long and 11 to 22 cm wide. They are relatively thick, green above and light green below, with a long petiole about 15 to 25 cm long.

3. Flower identification

Its flowers are bright yellow in color, with oblong or spoon-shaped tongues, about 15 to 22 mm long and 3 to 4 mm wide, arranged in umbels. There are 12 to 14 bracts, distributed in two layers, oblong in shape, gradually becoming pointed at the upper end, and covered with small hairs on the back. The flowering and fruiting period is from August to March of the following year.