Contents
Description
Cirsium Alsophilum, also known as the woodlands thistle, is a perennial herb that belongs to the sunflower family. It is native to California and can grow up to 2 meters tall. The plant has a unique appearance with large, spiny leaves that are green on the upper side and woolly on the underside. The flowers are purple and appear in clusters on the top of the stems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cirsium |
Appearance
Cirsium Alsophilum has large, spiny leaves that are green on the upper side and woolly on the underside. The leaves can be up to 30 centimeters long and 10 centimeters wide. The stems are thick and hairy, and can be up to 2 meters tall. The flowers are purple and appear in clusters on the top of the stems. The plant blooms from May to July.
Care Guide
Cirsium Alsophilum prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Water: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Do not allow the soil to dry out completely.
Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Cirsium Alsophilum prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Cirsium Alsophilum is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cirsium Alsophilum is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can be affected by powdery mildew and rust. These can be treated with a fungicide. The plant can also attract aphids and spider mites. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Cirsium Alsophilum is native to California and can be found in woodlands and chaparral at elevations up to 1500 meters. The plant prefers moist, shady areas and can be found growing along stream banks and in canyons.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cirsium Alsophilum an invasive species?
A: No, Cirsium Alsophilum is not considered an invasive species.
Q: Can Cirsium Alsophilum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Cirsium Alsophilum can be grown in containers, but it may require staking due to its height.
Q: Does Cirsium Alsophilum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Cirsium Alsophilum is a pollinator-friendly plant and can attract bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should I fertilize Cirsium Alsophilum?
A: Fertilize once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Cirsium arvense
- Cirsium discolor
- Cirsium douglasii
- Cirsium horridulum
References
- “Cirsium Alsophilum.” Calflora. Retrieved from https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Cirsium+alsophilum
- “Cirsium Alsophilum.” USDA Plants Database. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CIAL4
- “Cirsium Alsophilum.” Las Pilitas Nursery. Retrieved from https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/421–cirsium-alsophilum
