Canada Thistle (Cirsium Arvense) is a perennial herb in the Asteraceae family with easy care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 3-8. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Cirsium arvense is a perennial, rhizomatous thistle native to Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa, and now widespread as an invasive weed.

Canada Thistle

Canada Thistle

Cirsium Arvense

Cirsium arvense is a perennial, rhizomatous thistle native to Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa, and now widespread as an invasive weed.

Quick Facts

Type
herb
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Easy
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
3-8

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
Non-Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:clay, sandy, loamy, silty
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:pollinator support

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Canada Thistle

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Canada Thistle
Canada Thistle detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Asteraceae
Genus:Cirsium