Contents
Description
Cirsium Pumilum, commonly known as the Pasture Thistle, is a perennial herb native to the United States. It belongs to the family Asteraceae and grows up to a height of 3 feet. The plant has a taproot system and produces multiple stems that are hairy and green in color. The leaves of the Cirsium Pumilum are alternate, deeply lobed, and spiny with a maximum length of 8 inches. The plant blooms from June to August, producing pink to purple flowers that are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems. The flowers attract a variety of pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cirsium |
Appearance
Cirsium Pumilum is a tall, spiny plant with deeply lobed leaves that can grow up to a length of 8 inches. The stems are hairy and green, and the plant produces flowers that are pink to purple in color. The flowers bloom in clusters at the top of the stem and attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The plant has a taproot system and can grow up to a height of 3 feet.
Care Guide
Water
Cirsium Pumilum requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. It is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
The plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil once a year to provide the necessary nutrients to the plant.
Soil
Cirsium Pumilum requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can grow in a range of soil types, including sand, loam, and clay.
Sunlight
The plant requires full sunlight to partial shade to thrive. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as much.
Hardiness Zones
The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cirsium Pumilum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may sometimes fall prey to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. It is important to keep the plant clean and well-maintained to prevent the occurrence of these problems.
Habitat
Cirsium Pumilum is native to the United States and can be found in a variety of habitats like prairies, meadows, and pastures. The plant grows best in areas with full sunlight and well-drained soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cirsium Pumilum a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Cirsium Pumilum produces flowers that are attractive to pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: What kind of soil does Cirsium Pumilum prefer?
A: Cirsium Pumilum prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a range of soil types, including sand, loam, and clay.
Q: How tall can Cirsium Pumilum grow?
A: Cirsium Pumilum can grow up to a height of 3 feet.
Q: Does Cirsium Pumilum require frequent fertilization?
A: No, Cirsium Pumilum does not require frequent fertilization. However, you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil once a year to provide the necessary nutrients to the plant.
Related Plants
- Cirsium Altissimum
- Cirsium Arvense
- Cirsium Discolor
- Cirsium Horridulum
- Cirsium Lanceolatum
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CIPU2
- https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/pasture_thistlex.htm
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CIPU2
