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Spiny plumeless thistle
Also known as: Bastard nodding thistle, Winged plumeless thistle, Slender thistle
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.
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Biennial
Lifespan
Herb
Plant Type
Spring, Summer, Fall
Bloom Time
Purple, Red
Flower Color
Deciduous
Leaf type
20 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature

Images of Spiny plumeless thistle

Distribution of Spiny plumeless thistle

Distribution Map
Spiny plumeless thistle is a thistle native to regions of Europe, Western Asia, and the northern African continent. The plant has spread beyond its indigenous range, becoming naturalized in parts of North America and Australasia. Its adaptability to various climates contributes to its presence as a weed in temperate zones across the globe.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Open grasslands, disturbed areas, roadsides, fields, pastures
Hemisphere Trend Curve

Weed Control

Spiny plumeless thistle originates from Europe and Asia. As a weed, it is highly adaptable and opportunistic, characteristics that allow it to sprawl and take over landscapes swiftly. The plant reproduces abundantly, producing a high yield of wind-borne seeds that sprout in various environments, therefore making its control difficult. This weed is harmful to gardens due to its aggressive spread, often outcompeting desirable plants for resources and space. Also, its sharp spines can cause direct harm to humans and animals, discouraging any casual physical interaction with the plant. The primary method of spiny plumeless thistle spread is through its seeds, which can be carried by wind, water, or inadvertently by animals or humans. This mechanism often leads to the rapid infestation of new areas, making it one difficult weed to control.
How to Control It
The best season for removing spiny plumeless thistle is typically late spring or early summer, before the plant has had a chance to produce and disperse its seeds. Now, let's consider some organic or interesting ways to control this weed:
  1. Manual removal: Wear heavy-duty gloves and carefully pull out the spiny plumeless thistle from the roots. This should be done when the soil is damp to make the process easier and more effective.
  2. Solarization: This involves covering the spiny plumeless thistle patch with a clear plastic tarp during the hottest part of summer. The heat from the sun raises the soil temperature to a degree that kills the weed.
  3. Mulching: Cover the area with a thick layer of mulch. This helps obstruct light and air from reaching the spiny plumeless thistle, thereby inhibiting its growth.
  4. Planting competitive plants: Grow plants that can compete with spiny plumeless thistle for resources, such as legumes or grasses. These can help limit the spread of the weed.
  5. Biological control: Use natural spiny plumeless thistle predators, like certain insects or grazers, that can help diminish its population.
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Care Guide for Spiny plumeless thistle

Every week
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
20 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water: Spiny plumeless thistle thrives in moderate climates, requiring consistent but non-saturated soil moisture. It prefers weekly watering, is moderately drought-tolerant, and is best grown outdoors in well-draining soil to avoid root rot due to its sensitivity to overwatering.
Propagation: Spiny plumeless thistle, a challenging plant native to Europe and western Asia, is invasive and adaptable to various soils. Propagation occurs through unpretreated seeds. Optimal seed-soil contact is essential, with thinning required to prevent overcrowding. Regular monitoring and management are important to control spreading.
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