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Cirsium altissimum
Cirsium altissimum
Cirsium altissimum
Cirsium altissimum

Cirsium altissimum

TAXONOMY

FamilyAsteraceae
GenusCirsium
Zone4

ABOUT

Cirsium altissimum, commonly known as tall thistle, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to North America, particularly in temperate regions. The plant can grow up to 2.5 meters tall and is characterized by its spiny leaves and purple flower heads. It typically goes dormant in the winter months.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Tall Thistle

OVERVIEW

WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy4 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

DETAILS

Care Instructions
Tall thistle prefers full sun and moderate temperatures. It is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate dry conditions once established. Ensure the plant receives adequate sunlight and water it sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Tall thistle thrives in well-draining loamy soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but prefers soil that is not too rich in nutrients. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Fertilizer
Tall thistle does not require regular fertilization. If necessary, a light application of a balanced fertilizer can be used in the early growing season.
Repotting
Tall thistle is not typically grown in pots and does not require repotting. It is best suited for outdoor garden settings where it can spread naturally.
Propagation
Tall thistle can be propagated by seeds. Collect seeds from mature flower heads in late summer or early fall and sow them directly in the garden. Ensure the soil is well-draining and keep it slightly moist until germination.
Pruning
Pruning is not generally required for tall thistle. However, removing spent flower heads can help prevent self-seeding and control the spread of the plant.
Toxicity
Tall thistle is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, the spiny leaves can cause minor skin irritation if handled without gloves.
Additional
Tall thistle can be a valuable addition to a wildflower garden or naturalized area, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It is also deer-resistant, making it a good choice for areas with high deer populations.
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How To Grow Cirsium altissimum | EarthOne