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Virginia thistle
Scientific Name: Cirsium virginianum
Family: Asteraceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Biennial
Other Names: NJ (Virginia thistle)
Cirsium vulgare and Cirsium virginianum (Thistles)
This page provides information about two species of thistle, Cirsium vulgare (bull thistle, common thistle, or spear thistle) and Cirsium virginianum (Virginia thistle).
Considerations for Pets
- Cirsium vulgare, also known as bull thistle, common thistle, or spear thistle, has "spear" in its name, suggesting the potential presence of sharp edges or points.
Scientific Classification
- Cirsium vulgare:
- Common Names: Bull thistle, common thistle, spear thistle
- Cirsium virginianum:
- Common Name: Virginia Thistle
- Family: Asteraceae (Aster Family)
- Type: Biennial
Distribution and Habitat
- Cirsium virginianum is native to Virginia.
Ecological Role
- Cirsium vulgare (bull thistle, common thistle, or spear thistle) is listed as a noxious weed.
- Plumeless thistle, Carduus acanthoides L., is an introduced species.
Morphological Characteristics
- Cirsium virginianum is a BIENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft).
- The flowers of Cirsium virginianum are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs).
Interactions with Other Organisms
- The flowers of Cirsium virginianum are pollinated by bees and flies.
- Thistles generously produce nectar for butterflies and seeds for small birds like the American Goldfinch.
- Rhinocyllus conicus is mentioned in the context of musk thistle control.
Further Information
- USWildflowers Database State List for Virginia
- Virginia Tech Weed Identification Guide