Creeping thistle - Cirsium arvense (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Invasive, Images, Control)

Creeping thistle

Also known as: Field thistle

This aggressive weed spreads across grasslands and fields via underground roots that creep horizontally, some for more than 5 m. It can cause major problems to agriculture if its growth is left unchecked. Its seeds feed many birds as well as pest insects. Creeping thistle is generally considered a noxious weed even in its native territory.

Scientific classification

Species

Creeping thistle (Cirsium arvense)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

1.5 m

Plant Height

1 m

Spread

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Creeping thistle

Distribution of Creeping thistle

Distribution Map

Creeping thistle, with a widespread presence, is indigenous to diverse regions across Europe and Asia, spanning various climates and habitats. The plant has also spread to continents such as South America, Africa, and Oceania. In areas outside its native range, creeping thistle is sometimes thought to be invasive, where it may have an impact on local ecosystems, though the extent of such interference widely varies.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Arable land

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Creeping thistle has a weedy, invasive nature and is not recommended to grow in gardens. It is an aggressive grower and will smother and readily replace nearby plant life. The flowers attract bees and pollinators but tend to do more harm than good to the environment.

Symbolism

Strength, Protection, overcoming adversity, pride

Interesting Facts

In 2016, a study in Britain showed that creeping thistle was one of the highest nectar producing flowers, making it a favorite food source for pollinators. Its seed is food for goldfinches. However, in spite of its benefits to birds and bugs, this weed is highly invasive and difficult to control.

Name Story

Canada thistle: It is interesting to know that the name is not related to Canada at all. Since this misleading name has stuck with the plant from the beginning, till this day, this name is still widely used in the United States.

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Toxicity

The toxicity of creeping thistle is low, requiring direct skin contact to cause itchy irritation, mainly in children. The most severe side effect is a risk of infection from scratching.

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Weed Control

Thought to originate from southeastern Europe, creeping thistle is a registered invasive species in parts of Europe, North America, and New Zealand. It has now spread across the world and severe infestations plague several countries. Being a noxious weed, it contains a host of pests and threatens cereal crops and forage products. Creeping thistle also rapidly spreads, as each plant can produce up to 5,300 seeds. They can clone, withstand extreme temperatures, and seeds remain intact for up to 20 years in soil. Mowing and herbicides are the most effective means of controlling the spread of creeping thistle.

How to Control It

The best season for removing creeping thistle is during spring or early summer. It is crucial to remove this plant before it reaches the flowering stage, to prevent the production and spread of seeds. Here are three organic methods for removal or control:

Hand-pulling: This method involves manually uprooting the plant from the ground. Ensure to remove as much root as possible to prevent re-growth.
Tilling: A mechanical method under which soil is turned over using a plow or rototiller. This is done to bury the existing plants and to sever the root system, making it difficult for the plant to grow again.
Use of organic herbicides: Apply vinegar or citric acid onto the thistles. These acidic substances penetrate the plant's cuticle damaging it and causing dehydration. This is best done on hot sunny days for optimal efficiency.

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Quickly Identify Creeping thistle

Upright growth reaching 6 feet (1.8 meters), with grooved stems and spiny leaves.

Purple-pink flowers on female plants emitting fragrance, surrounded by tomentose bracts.

Diminutive dry achenes with feathery white to light brown pappus for wind dispersal.

Dark green, deeply lobed leaves measuring 2-6 inches (5-15 cm); tomentose underside, very prickly.

Slender stem with distinct grooves, 0.1-0.2 inches (0.25-0.5 cm) in diameter; occasional fine hairs.

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Care Guide for Creeping thistle

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Adapted to moderate moisture, creeping thistle balances drought tolerance and moisture preference. Weekly watering promotes optimal growth. This herbaceous perennial thrives outdoors, aligning its growth cycle with seasonal rainfall patterns.

Propagation: Creeping thistle is propagated mainly through cuttings in spring and summer. Select healthy growth and new shoots for successful propagation. Maintain proper moisture levels to support growth.

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Images of Creeping thistle

Distribution of Creeping thistle

Culture

Toxicity

Weed Control

Quickly Identify Creeping thistle

Care Guide for Creeping thistle

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