Cirsium arvense Play pronunciation

Creeping thistle is an upright, herbaceous perennial weed in the daisy family (Asteraceae). It is native to Europe, Asia and Africa, where it is found in wet meadows, swamps, bogs and moist woodlands. It was introduced to the United States in the 1600s and today it is an invasive species in North Carolina, most commonly found in disturbed areas, clearings or agricultural sites. 

The plant grows up to 6 feet tall with stems branched only at the top. The leaves are long, deeply lobed and prickly. It has pink, purple or white flowers that appear in summer. The female flowers, which produce seed, are fragrant. 

It rapidly spreads by lateral root growth and wind-dispersed seeds, allowing it to form dense stands that can shade out native plants. Its root system can extend more than fifteen feet out and six feet down from the plant, making management difficult. Consistent repeated mowing or hand pulling can deplete the root system’s energy storage over a series of years. Biological and chemical management may need to be used in conjunction with these mechanical measures. 

Please choose a native or less problematic plant. Suggestions appear to the left. Creeping thistle should not be introduced into the garden. 

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  Creeping thistle is classified as a Class B noxious weed in North Carolina, meaning it should be actively managed to prevent further spread. Its extensive and aggressive root and shoot system coupled with its prolific seed production make it very difficult to manage.