Annual Sow Thistle

ANNUAL SOW THISTLE
(Common Sow Thistle, Spiny-Leaved Sow Thistle, Spiny Milk Thistle)


Habitat: Cultivated fields, roadsides, riverbanks, and gardens.


Description: The annual sow thistle measures between .1 and 1.0 meters.  They have a single stem branching out near the top.  Stems are hallow and exude a milky juice.  The flowers are small, yellow dandelion-like flower heads.  Leaves are deeply lobed and basal leaves end with a large pointed segment.  Seeds are 2.5 - 3.5 mm long, reddish brown and ribbed.  They also have a very short tap root.


Control Practices:

1. Intensive grazing by cattle and sheep can prevent seed-set.

2. Mowing lower than 20 cm before they go to seed can prevent regrowth.

3. Cultivation

4. Chemical control is also an option.


To view photos, please click here.