The plant known as nodding thistle originates in regions across Europe and parts of Asia, and is naturalized in various other temperate areas of the globe. Its range extends to major parts of continents such as South America, East Asia, and Oceania, where nodding thistle is sometimes thought to be a vigorous settler with a penchant for establishing itself in new territories. Although nodding thistle may have an impact on ecosystems, particularly where it becomes abundant, its disruptive effect varies by region and ecosystem type. As a plant that can adapt to a variety of environments, nodding thistle has established itself in numerous areas outside its native range.

Nodding thistle is considered a weed in most of the United States, where it is found in grasslands in the northern sections of the country. It is a noxious weed in 22 of the United States and 4 provinces of Canada and is on most state's invasive species lists. The weed's presence lowers pasture productivity. Livestock avoid it because of its spiny foliage, so selective grazing leads to a severe decline of native plants. One plant can produce several thousand seeds, so control efforts should focus on preventing seed production. Hand pulling is effective with small numbers of plants, otherwise use herbicide.

To control nodding thistle, the best season for removal is in late spring or early summer when the plant is in a vegetative state, i.e., before they flower and disperse their seeds. Here are a few organic or interesting methods to remove/control nodding thistle: