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distaff thistle
Scientific Name: Carthamus
Family: Asteraceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Carthamus lanatus: Woolly Distaff Thistle
Carthamus lanatus is a thistle species known by several common names, including woolly distaff thistle, downy safflower, and saffron thistle. It is closely related to safflower.
Considerations for Pets
- This plant is described as spiny.
Considerations for Children
- This plant is described as spiny.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Carthamus lanatus L.
- Family: Asteraceae
- Synonyms: distaff thistle, saffron thistle
- Subspecies: Carthamus lanatus ssp. creticus (L.) Holmboe
- Other Common Names: downy safflower, woolly safflower, false starthistle, smooth distaff thistle
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the Mediterranean and central Europe.
Ecological Role
- It is considered an aggressive rangeland pest that displaces forage plants.
- Land managers and ranchers in areas like Marin and Sonoma counties have expressed concern over its spread.
- It is a serious threat to Oregon range and pasture lands.
Morphological Characteristics
- It is a winter annual forb that can grow up to 3.3 ft (1 m) tall.
- Stem leaves are alternate, pinnate, and stiff.
- It has yellow flowers.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Flowers are pollinated by insects.
- It is generally not palatable to domestic animals or wildlife.
Further Information
- Weed Science: wsweedscience.org
- California Invasive Species Council: cal-ipc.org
- USDA PLANTS Symbol: CALA20
- RHS (Royal Horticultural Society): provides help & information on Carthamus lanatus distaff thistle.