Field Thistle
Cirsium discolor

Height: 3-5 ft
Spread: 1-2 ft
Bloom Time: August-November
Sunlight: Full Sun to Part Shade
Soil Moisture: Moist, Medium, Dry
Life Cycle: Biennial or Short-lived Perennial

This biennial or short-lived perennial thistle is a pollinator magnet and an essential part of many habitats. It should not be confused with weedy non-native species. During the first year, a rosette of leaves forms, and the following year the flowering stalks emerge. Unlike similar non-native thistles, this non-aggressive species has a white color on the undersides of its leaves and is less prickly. The large purple/pink (or occasionally white) flowers have large amounts of nectar and pollen and help to support a variety of butterflies from Monarchs to Swallowtails to Fritillaries. Bees are also frequent visitors, and Ruby-throated Hummingbirds may visit on occasion. The foliage is used as a host plant for the caterpillars of Painted Lady butterflies. Later in the year, fluffy seedheads form. American Goldfinches feed upon these seeds and will also use the fibers in the seedheads to create their nests.  Deer Resistant.​