Pasture thistle (Cirsium pumilum)

Pasture thistle

Pasture thistle (Cirsium pumilum) is indigenous to North America. This plant loves to grow in rocky soil where there’s barely any moisture. This makes it a super hardy species. In the United States, you’ll find it proliferating across prairies. Unfortunately, it’s rapidly losing habitat due to the encroachment of civilization.

Scientific classification

Species

Pasture thistle (Cirsium pumilum)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

30 cm to 91 cm

Plant Height

Green

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Summer

Growth Season

Images of Pasture thistle

Quickly Identify Pasture thistle

Height: 1-3 feet (30-91 cm), with wooly undersides on leaves and fragrant disc flowers.

Spiky leaves: up to 12 inches (30 cm) long with stiff spines, attracting butterflies and birds.

Purple inflorescences: 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) across, lacking petals but fragrant.

Feathery pappus on seeds aids wind dispersal, <0.1 inch (2.5 mm) long, resembling a parachute.

Stout stem: 1-3 feet (30-91 cm) tall, silver-haired, spiny, and minimally branched.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Pasture thistle

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Water: Thriving in temperate meadows, pasture thistle prefers moderate moisture without waterlogging. Water weekly for optimal health. This herbaceous perennial benefits from moist soil during its growing season, promoting robust foliage and vibrant flowers.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, pasture thistle requires monthly balanced nutrition with equal NPK ratios during the growing season. Careful fertilization enhances vigor and flowering. Use sparingly to prevent root burn and adjust frequency in fall and winter. Consider organic options for eco-friendliness.

Pruning: Pasture thistle thrives with regular pruning, ideally in early to late spring. Key techniques involve removing dead stems and shaping overgrown branches, promoting denser foliage and more flowers. Clean cuts are essential to prevent disease. Consistent pruning maintains pasture thistle's vigor and visual appeal.

Propagation: Pasture thistle propagates well from fresh seeds sown in well-draining soil after the last frost. Keep them moist, and improve germination through stratification. Once seedlings are strong, transplant them to their final location, ensuring sufficient space for growth, making cultivation accessible for beginners.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Learn More About Pasture thistle

Sunlight Requirements

How to Transplant

How to Prune

How to Grow and Care

Plant disease auto-diagnose & prevention

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Download the App for Free