Wavyleaf thistle is a plant species native to North America, where it predominantly establishes itself in the central and northern regions, encompassing prairies and grassland ecosystems. It has not been widely documented as introduced or naturalized in other major regions outside its native range.

Wavyleaf thistle hails from North America, primarily spanning across the western regions of Canada and the United States. This plant is classified as a weed due to its invasive nature, displaying features of rapid and daily reproduction. With a high tolerance for various environmental conditions, it quickly and exponentially colonizes and spreads, often outcompeting other indigenous plant species for resources. It poses a rather significant threat to other plants in a garden, as its aggressive growth habit can lead to it dominating and smothering other plant life. Noted for its harmful impact, its extensive root system can alter soil composition, making areas less hospitable for other plants. Further ensuring its swift proliferation, wavyleaf thistle employs the wind for dispersion. Each mature plant can produce up to 1,500 seeds, which are equipped with pappi - bristles that act as parachutes, facilitating wind-led dispersal. These seeds can travel significant distances, thus further spreading the plant's influence.

The best season to remove wavyleaf thistle or Wavyleaf thistle is during early summer before the plant has the chance to flower and disperse seeds. Here are some methods you can use for managing this plant: