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fountain thistle

Scientific Name: Cirsium fontinale

Family: Asteraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Fountain Thistle (Cirsium fontinale)

The Fountain Thistle is a unique and endangered plant species native to California. This page provides information about its classification, distribution, and other important characteristics.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions that Fountain Thistle has spine-tipped leaves, which might pose a risk of injury to pets.

Considerations for Children

  • The Fountain Thistle has prickles and spine-tipped leaves, which might pose a risk of injury to children.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Cirsium fontinale
  • Common Names: Fountain Thistle, Chorro Creek bog thistle, crystal springs fountain thistle
  • Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower family)
  • Genus: Cirsium (Thistles)
  • Varieties:
    • Cirsium fontinale var. fontinale (crystal springs fountain thistle)
    • Cirsium fontinale var. campylon (Mount Hamilton Fountain Thistle)
    • Cirsium fontinale var. obispoense (San Luis Obispo fountain thistle)

Distribution and Habitat

  • The Fountain Thistle is endemic to California.
  • It is often found near serpentine seeps and springs.
  • Specific locations mentioned include San Mateo County, Crystal Springs Reservoir, Mount Hamilton, and San Luis Obispo.
  • The plant thrives in serpentine habitats, characterized by specific soil conditions.

Conservation Status

  • The Fountain Thistle is listed as an endangered species by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
  • It is also classified as endangered in California.

Morphological Characteristics

  • The Fountain Thistle is an herbaceous perennial.
  • It has several stout, erect, reddish stems.
  • It features large, gray-green, spine-tipped leaves at the base.
  • The plant produces large white to pinkish, nodding flowering heads.

Further Information

  • U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Sacramento Fish & Wildlife Office.
  • Discover Life