SafePlants

Dwarf Thistle (Cirsium acaule)

The Dwarf Thistle, scientifically known as Cirsium acaule, is also commonly called the Stemless Thistle or Picnic Thistle.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant has prickly leaves and sharp spines, which could pose a risk of injury.

Considerations for Children

• The plant has prickly leaves and sharp spines, which could pose a risk of injury.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cirsium acaule (L.) Scop.
• Common Names: Dwarf Thistle, Stemless Thistle, Picnic Thistle, Ground Thistle, Dwarf May Thistle
• Synonyms: Carduus acaulis (Botanical - Culpepper)
• Family: Asteraceae (Based on "Asteraceaes" reference)

Distribution and Habitat

• Widespread across much of Europe.
• Common in the southern half of England.
• Found on chalk grassland and calcerous (chalky) soil.
• Specifically mentioned as being found in Dorset, Hants, Berkshire, Butler's Hangings (Buckinghamshire, England), and Thuringia, Germany.
• Approaching the northern limit of its range in VC55, mainly found in the east of Leicestershire and parts of Rutland.
• Prefers short grassland and benefits from grazing.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Low-growing thistle, typically up to 20cm in height.
• Leaves spread out in a rosette on the ground.
• Leaves are spiny and shiny on both sides.
• Flowers are purple and borne on very short stems, sometimes appearing stemless.
• Has spear-shaped leaves with spear-shaped pinnate lobes, each point with a yellow-tipped sharp spine.
• Large globular flower-heads covered in sharp spines.
• Native, rosette-forming, perennial herb.

Ecological Role

• Benefits from grazing in its chalk grassland habitat.

Quirky Facts

• It is also known as the Picnic Thistle.
• There is a suggestion to cook the main ribs of young spring basal rosette leaves of the Dwarf Thistle.