New Zealand Sow Thistle (Sonchus Kirkii) is a biennial to 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 8-11. This plant is safe for cats and dogs.

Sonchus kirkii is a biennial to perennial herb native to coastal New Zealand, known for its fast growth and white latex exudate.

New Zealand Sow Thistle

New Zealand Sow Thistle

Sonchus Kirkii

Sonchus kirkii is a biennial to perennial herb native to coastal New Zealand, known for its fast growth and white latex exudate.

Quick Facts

Type
herb
Lifecycle
biennial to perennial
Care Difficulty
Easy
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
8-11

Safety

🐕
Pet Safe
👶
Child Safe
Non-Toxic

Growing Conditions

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

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for New Zealand Sow 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

New Zealand Sow Thistle
New Zealand Sow Thistle detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Asteraceae
Genus:Sonchus