Plant Profile: Cirsium vulgare

Bull Thistle is a biennial plant that develops a rosette of leaves during its first year and produces a flowering stem in its second year. Originally from Europe, it has become established across much of North America. This species is capable of invading a wide range of disturbed environments, often creating dense thickets that outcompete native vegetation. In pasturelands, its numerous spines diminish the availability of forage. It has been identified as an invasive species in several states. However, it does provide nectar that attracts bees and butterflies.