Lucas Land
Field Thistle
Cirsium discolor
From Nearctica
Identification: Flower head ovate with an apical spray of purple to lavender florets. Upper leaves small, curled upward, and embracing the flower head. Flower head bracts with pale bristles. Stem naked without spines or spiny plates. Leaves broad, heavily incised with each projection tipped with a stout spine. Underside of leaves white and woolly. Plant 3 to 9 feet in height.
Distribution: Throughout eastern North America except Florida.
Habitat: Field Thistle thrives in a variety of habitats including open woods, fields, prairie, and disturbed areas.
Flowering period: July to October.