How to Grow and Care for Plumeless thistles

Nodding thistle (Carduus nutans) is a plant species native to Europe and Asia. The nodding thistle is considered an invasive species in North America, South Africa, New Zealand and Australia. It has been eradicated in Southern California.

Italian thistle (*Carduus pycnocephalus*) is a summer annual that blooms from winter to summer with small but showy purple or pink flowers. The seeds from this plant are edible, and each flower produces approximately 200 seeds. It prefers to grow in full sun and well-drained soil.

Found mainly in open grasslands, disturbed areas, and roadsides, Carduus acanthoides is distinguished by its spiny stems and purple flowers. It's native to Europe and Asia, but it's listed as an invasive plant in many regions in North America.

Alpine thistle (Carduus defloratus) is one of many members of the thistle family. It is named defloratus, which means "reclined" or "withered" in Latin, because of the angle of the purple flower head. This wildflower is pollinated by bees and butterflies. You'll find this thistle growing in dry limestone meadows, open woodlands, and rocky inclines.

Curly plumeless thistle (Carduus crispus), also known as welted thistle, is a biennial herb from Europe and Asia. In spite of its appearance, it is a member of the daisy family. After being imported to North America, it spread and is considered a noxious weed. Curly plumeless thistle is a favorite of painted lady caterpillars and honeybees.