Canada Thistle

QUICK IDENTIFICATION

  • Pink to purple flowers resembling knapweed flowers
  • Prickly leaves with a waxy surface
  • Growth in clumps
  • Height 2 to 5 feet

Video Information


Weed Pictures


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Weed Information


TypeInformation
ToxicityNon-toxic.
ControlCutting or mowing, biological, re-vegetation (competing crops) and herbicide. Contact your County Weed District or local Applicator for more information.
HabitatWetter habitat or disturbed ground, including ditch banks, overgrazed pastures, tilled fields or abandoned sites.
RootExtensive vertical and creeping horizontal roots.
Leaf ShapeLance-shaped and shallow-lobed.
LifespanPerennial; two years or longer.
Priority 2B WeedAbundant in Montana and widespread in many counties.
Similar Looking PlantsWavy leaf and bull thistles.
Important InformationHard to manage due to extensive nutrient stores and root systems; combinw integrated weed management (IWM) for effective control. The root system accounts for much of the re-establishment of the plant.
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