Cirsium vulgare
TAXONOMY
FamilyAsteraceae
GenusCirsium
Zone4
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Cirsium vulgare, commonly known as the bull thistle, is a biennial plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa but has become naturalized in many other regions. The plant is known for its spiny leaves and purple flower heads. It typically grows in temperate climates and can be found in pastures, roadsides, and disturbed areas.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Ascalea Lanceolata
Bull Thistle
Carduus lanceolatus var. lanceolatus
Carduus vulgaris
Cirsium firmum
Cirsium lanceolatum
Cirsium lanceolatum subsp. lanceolatum
Cirsium lanceolatum subsp. sylvaticum
Cirsium lanceolatum var. abyssinicum
Cirsium lanceolatum var. hypoleucum
Cirsium lanceolatum var. nemorale
Cirsium lanceolatum var. rhiphaeum
Cirsium lanceolatum var. vulgare
Cirsium microcephalum
Cirsium vulgare
Cirsium vulgare f. vulgare
Cirsium vulgare subsp. silvaticum
Cnicus lanceolatus var. abyssinicus
Cnicus lanceolatus var. lanceolatus
Cnicus strigosus
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature18° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy4 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Bull thistle prefers full sun and moderate temperatures. It is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal watering once established. The plant thrives in well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of soil types. It does not require high humidity and can grow well in average conditions.Soil
Cirsium vulgare prefers well-drained loamy soil but can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy and clay soils. The soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Good drainage is essential for the plant's health.Fertilizer
Bull thistle does not typically require fertilization. If the soil is particularly poor, a balanced fertilizer can be applied sparingly during the growing season to support growth.Repotting
As a biennial plant that grows primarily outdoors, repotting is not typically necessary for Cirsium vulgare. It is best to plant it directly in the ground where it can establish its root system.Propagation
Bull thistle can be propagated by seeds. The best time to collect seeds is in late summer or early fall when the flower heads have dried. Sow the seeds directly in the ground in the fall or early spring. The seeds require light to germinate, so do not cover them with soil.Pruning
Pruning is not required for Cirsium vulgare. However, removing spent flower heads can help prevent the plant from self-seeding and spreading uncontrollably.Toxicity
Cirsium vulgare is not toxic to pets or humans. However, the spiny leaves and stems can cause physical irritation if handled without care.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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