Contents
Description
Cirsium Carolinianum, commonly known as the Carolina Thistle, is a perennial wildflower that is native to North America. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and produces stunning pink-purple flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cirsium |
Appearance
The Carolina Thistle can grow up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Its leaves are green and deeply lobed, with sharp spines along the edges. The flowers are pink-purple and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. They are 1-2 inches wide and have a spiky appearance, with numerous small petals surrounding a central disc.
Care Guide
The Carolina Thistle is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. Water the plant deeply once a week, and fertilize it every 6-8 weeks with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, but it grows best in loamy soil. It is hardy to USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Carolina Thistle is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, aphids, spider mites, and thrips may occasionally feed on the plant. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Carolina Thistle is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, and roadsides. It is a hardy plant that is drought-tolerant and can thrive in poor soil conditions. It is often used in landscaping and wildflower gardens, where it provides a splash of color and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Carolina Thistle be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Carolina Thistle can be grown in containers, but it requires a large pot and well-drained soil.
Q: Is the Carolina Thistle a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the Carolina Thistle is a great plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Is the Carolina Thistle invasive?
A: No, the Carolina Thistle is not considered invasive, but it can self-seed and spread if not controlled.
Q: Does the Carolina Thistle have any medicinal uses?
A: Yes, the Carolina Thistle has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including liver and kidney problems.
Related Plants
- Cirsium Altissimum
- Cirsium Arvense
- Cirsium Discolor
- Cirsium Horridulum
References
- “Cirsium carolinianum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 27 September 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a313>
- “Cirsium Carolinianum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 27 September 2021. <https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CICA7>
- “Cirsium Carolinianum.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 27 September 2021. <https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CICA7>
