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clustered thistle

Scientific Name: Cirsium brevistylum

Family: Asteraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Other Names:

       

Indian Thistle (Cirsium brevistylum)

Cirsium brevistylum, commonly known as Indian thistle or clustered thistle, is a species native to western North America.

Considerations for Pets

  • As a thistle, this plant may have spines or prickly parts.

Considerations for Children

  • As a thistle, this plant may have spines or prickly parts.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cirsium brevistylum
  • Common Names: Indian thistle, clustered thistle, short-styled thistle
  • Family: Asteraceae (Aster family)
  • Synonyms: USDA Symbol: CIBR2

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to western North America.
  • Frequently found in abandoned fields and areas of garrigue and steppe.
  • Observed in locations such as the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness and western Montana.

Morphology and Growth Habits

  • A perennial plant growing up to 1.8 meters (6 feet) tall.
  • Flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs).
  • Flowers are often clustered at the ends of branches, typically purple in color, and 1½ to 2 inches in diameter.

Ecology

  • Pollinated by insects.
  • Native thistles, including Cirsium brevistylum, provide food for insects.

Quirky Facts

  • All thistles are reportedly edible.

Further Information

  • Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Cirsium brevistylum.
  • Dave's Garden offers a community for sharing tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.