CANADA THISTLE
Cirsium arvense
Plant Characteristics
Height:
3' - 5'
Stem:
Slender covered with hair
Leaves:
Green with triangular-like spikes
Flower:
Rose purple or white, globe-shaped heads on ends of branches
Bloom Time:
June to SeptemberCanada thistle has roots up to 3 feet deep and is highly aggressive. It can form large dense colonies with creeping roots and can grow just about anywhere (up to 10-12 feet in one season). Once established, it can reproduce quickly and overtake native plants, diminishing diversity.
Mow
Mow just before flowering.
Spot Spray
Spot spray young plants in the fall.
Cultural Plant Alternatives:
Canada Milk Vetch
This sun loving plant is often found along river banks and lakeshores. It is useful for erosion control, wetland restoration, and food for wildlife. This plant is adaptable to many locations as long as there is well drained soil.
Prairie Coneflower
This showy plant does best in dry soils and prairies. A pleasant tasting tea can be made from the leaves and flower heads. It is a pollinator friendly plant that requires low maintenance.
