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cobwebby thistle
Scientific Name: Cirsium occidentale var. venustum
Family: Asteraceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Biennial, Perennial
Other Names:
Cobweb Thistle (Cirsium occidentale)
Cirsium occidentale, commonly known as cobweb thistle or cobwebby thistle, is a fascinating North American thistle species belonging to the sunflower family (Asteraceae).
Considerations for Pets and Children
- This plant has spiny characteristics.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cirsium occidentale (Nutt.) Jeps.
- Common Names: Cobweb thistle, Cobwebby thistle, Snowy thistle, Western Thistle, Venus Thistle, California Thistle, Bigelow Thistle
- Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower Family)
- Genus: Cirsium
- Taxonomic Rank: Species
- Synonyms/Varieties:
- Cirsium occidentale var. californicum (A. Gray) Keil & C. Turner
- Cirsium occidentale var. compactum
- Cirsium occidentale var. venustum
- Cirsium occidentale ssp occidentale
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to California, including deserts, mountains, and valleys.
- Found in western and southwestern USA.
Morphological Characteristics
- A perennial plant, growing up to 1 meter (3ft 3in) in height.
- Leaves are known to be leafy.
- Involucres are large, globose, to 2" in diameter, and densely cobwebby.
Ecological Role
- Mentioned in the context of biological control of exotic thistles, suggesting it can be considered a "troublesome weed" in some contexts.
Additional Information
- The flowers are hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female reproductive organs.
- Hardy to zone (UK) 9.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- The Cobwebby thistle (Cirsium occidentale var. venustum) attracts nectar-drinking pollinators.
Further Information
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
- Dave's Garden
- Discover Life