Canada Thistle is a perennial broadleaf weed with prickly, lobed leaves. It grows 1 to 5 feet tall, but its creeping roots can spread nearly 20 feet wide and deep, making it difficult to control. Small purple, rose or white flowers bloom in tight clusters atop the plant from late spring through fall. The seeds are attached to the tufts of hair, making them easily wind-blown. Food stored in the weed's roots allows the plant to survive for extended periods of drought.
Location
Canada Thistle grows throughout the United States.
Related or Similar Plants
Other thistles.
Cultural Solutions
- Frequent tilling may help control Canadian thistle.