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Murdock's thistle
Scientific Name: Cirsium murdockii
Family: Asteraceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Biennial, Perennial
Other Names:
Cirsium: Exploring Thistle Varieties
The genus Cirsium encompasses a diverse group of plants commonly known as thistles. This page provides information on several Cirsium species, including Cirsium vulgare (bull thistle, common thistle, or spear thistle), Cirsium mohavense (Mojave thistle), Cirsium murdockii (Murdock's thistle), and others.
Considerations for Pets
- Many thistles, as the name implies, have spines or prickles, which could pose a physical hazard to curious pets.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Genus: Cirsium, one of many genera with the common name "thistles."
- Cirsium murdockii (S.L. Welsh) Cronquist
- Rank: Species
- Common Names: Murdock's thistle, Northern Mountain Thistle, Tweedy's Thistle
- Synonyms: Cirsium polyphyllum (Rydb.)
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Cirsium murdockii is described as a forb/herb, meaning it's a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
Distribution and Habitat
- Cirsium murdockii has been identified in locations such as Mount Evans and Arapaho National Forest, Clear Creek Co., Colorado.
- The text indicates a concern about Cirsium murdockii as a noxious weed, particularly in Utah.
Ecological Role
- Cirsium vulgare (bull thistle) is noted as a noxious weed.
Distinguishing Features
- Cirsium species differ from other thistle genera (Carduus, Silybum, and Onopordon) by having feathered hairs on their achenes (dry, one-seeded fruits).
Quirky Facts
- The "Thistle" was the name of a ship that sailed to America in 1739, carrying Murdock McCranie and others.
Further Resources
- Ancestry.com is referenced for genealogical research related to the "Thistle family."
- David H. Murdock Research Institute (DHMRI) is mentioned in relation to research on milk thistle.