PLUMELESS THISTLE
Carduus acanthoides
Plant Characteristics
Height:
3' - 6'
Stem:
Erect, branched with spiny wings
Leaves:
Hairy underside, narrow, finely divided
Flower:
Small, purplish-pink, small clusters at branch ends
Bloom Time:
April to JunePlumeless thistle is one of the most aggressive thistles due to its heavy seed production (10,000). It can invade high grade native habitats due to the high dispersal rate. Within 10 days of flowering, over 90% of seeds will germinate. When in meadows and pastures, grazing animals will avoid plumeless thistle and focus on native plants, giving the invasive the upper hand.
Spot Spray
Spot spray with herbicide in the fall.
Hand Pull
Hand pull 1” to 2” below the ground before flowering.
Mow
Mowing just before flowering.
Cultural Plant Alternatives:
Prairie Smoke
Typically accompanied by other low growing plants, this lovely plant adds a pop of color to the garden. They are among the earliest bloomers in a prairie. Historically the plant has been used to brew a weak sassafras tea. A brew was also used in sweat lodges as a body wash for and pains.
Wild Bergamot
This aromatic plant is often visited by bees and butterflies. Also known as “elk medicine,” the flowers and leaves can be boiled and used to treat abdominal pain. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked for tea and seasoning.
