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sand dune thistle
Scientific Name: Cirsium pitcheri
Family: Asteraceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Biennial
Other Names: IL (Pitcher's dune thistle), IN (dune thistle), MI
Pitcher's Thistle (Cirsium pitcheri)
The Pitcher's thistle, scientifically known as Cirsium pitcheri, is a unique plant with a strong connection to the Great Lakes region. It is also commonly referred to as dune thistle or wooly leaved thistle.
Considerations for Pets
- As a thistle, this plant likely has prickly characteristics.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cirsium pitcheri (Torr. ex Eaton) Torr. & A. Gray
- Common Names: Pitcher's thistle, Dune thistle, Wooly leaved thistle, Sand dune thistle
- Family: Asteraceae (Aster family)
- Genus: Cirsium
- Taxonomic Rank: Species
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the sand dune shorelines along the upper Great Lakes.
- Primarily found on Lake Michigan sand dunes, but also present near the shores of Lake Superior and Lake Huron.
- Grows in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ontario, Canada.
- Prefers habitats with lots of exposed sand, including beaches, foredunes, secondary dunes, blowouts, and sand spits.
Ecological Role
- Plays a role in stabilizing dunes.
- It is considered a threatened species.
- Grows on open sand dunes.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- It's a short-lived perennial that flowers only once in its lifetime.
- It grows on open, dry, loose sand.
Quirky Facts
- The bracts (modified leaves) on the flower head are straw-colored when fully open.
Further Information
- USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
- Discover Life
- Dave's Garden