SafePlants

Arizona Thistle (Cirsium arizonicum) and Other Thistles

This page provides information on Cirsium arizonicum, commonly known as Arizona thistle, and other thistles within the Cirsium genus. The genus includes many species, some of which are referred to by the common name "thistle."

Considerations for Pets

• Thistles are known for having burrs, which can become attached to animal fur.

Considerations for Children

• Many thistles, including the Arizona thistle, are known for having thorns or prickles, which could cause injury.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Cirsium arizonicum
• Common Name: Arizona thistle
• Family: Asteraceae
• Kingdom: Plantae

Other Thistle Species Mentioned:

• Cirsium vulgare (bull thistle, common thistle, or spear thistle)
• Cirsium neomexicanum (Lavender thistle, New Mexico thistle)
• Cirsium acarna (Soldier Thistle)
• Cirsium acaule (Stemless Thistle, Dwarf Thistle)
• Cirsium muticum (Swamp Thistle)
• Cirsium navajoense (Navajo Thistle)
• Cirsium brevistylum (clustered thistle)

Synonyms and Varieties:

• Cirsium arizonicum var. chellyense (R.J. Moore & Frankton) D.J. Keil

Distribution and Habitat

• Cirsium arizonicum is native to North America.
• Several thistle species, including some mentioned here, are found in Arizona and New Mexico, especially in the Navajo Nation.

Ecological Role

• Some non-native thistles are considered serious invaders of meadows and pastures, particularly in regions like Apache and Navajo counties in Arizona.
• Russian thistle (Salsola tragus), also known as "tumbleweed," is mentioned as an invasive species in sand dune ecosystems, such as those found on the Navajo Nation.

Morphological Characteristics

• Thistles are known for their effusive flower heads, usually purple, rose, or pink.
• The Navajo thistle is described as large and white in color during the summer.
• The Navajo thistle is described as an evergreen plant.

Traditional Uses

• The text indicates that thistles, including those local to the Navajo Nation, were used medicinally and for food by Navajo people.
• The Navajo used Cirsium neomexicanum to reduce chills and fevers, using a cold infusion of the plant.
• The Navajo used a poultice of chewed plants (possibly referring to the Prickly Russian Thistle) as a dermatological aid for ant, bee, and wasp stings.

Quirky Facts

• Thistle Hollow is a valley in Navajo County, Arizona, which can be found on the Taylor USGS quad map.
• The Navajo Loop trail circles the lake at Thistle's walks.