Onopordum acanthium
Asteraceae
Form
-native to Europe and Asia, can grow up to 7 feet in height and 6 feet wide
-very invasive speices for ranchers out west, acts as barrier to prevent movement of livestock
Culture
-grows in rich soil of cultivated gardens to poor soil in waste areas
-full sun
-drought resistant
-seeds easily dispersed by wind causing a weed problem
Foliage
-large leaves covered with a cotton-like layer of hairs on top and bottom
-edges of leaves have sharp yellow spines
-branch tips give rise to 2 or 3 globe-shaped flower heads
Banner Photo by Mathew J. Wilson