Contents
Description
Cirsium Drummondii, also known as Drummond’s thistle or prairie thistle, is a wildflower native to the prairies of North America. It is a herbaceous biennial or perennial plant that can grow up to 6 feet tall. The stem of the plant is covered in spiny wings, and the leaves are also spiny and alternate along the stem. The flowers of Cirsium Drummondii are lavender in color and bloom from June to September. The plant is known for attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cirsium |
Appearance
Cirsium Drummondii is a tall, spiny plant with lavender flowers. The stem is covered in spiny wings, and the leaves are also spiny and alternate along the stem. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem and bloom from June to September. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and is known for attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds.
Care Guide
Cirsium Drummondii is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but can tolerate partial shade. The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering, but will benefit from occasional deep watering during periods of drought. Fertilization is not necessary, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring if desired. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types and pH levels, but prefers slightly acidic soil. Cirsium Drummondii is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cirsium Drummondii is relatively pest and disease resistant, but can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to rust and leaf spot, which can be controlled with a fungicide. Proper cultural practices such as good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can also help prevent disease.
Habitat
Cirsium Drummondii is native to the prairies of North America and can be found in dry, open areas such as fields, meadows, and prairies. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cirsium Drummondii a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Cirsium Drummondii is known for attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Does Cirsium Drummondii require regular watering?
A: No, Cirsium Drummondii is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering, but will benefit from occasional deep watering during periods of drought.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Cirsium Drummondii?
A: Cirsium Drummondii is relatively pest and disease resistant, but can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. It can also be susceptible to rust and leaf spot.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cirsium Drummondii?
A: Cirsium Drummondii is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Related Plants
- Cirsium Altissimum
- Cirsium Canescens
- Cirsium Discolor
- Cirsium Hillii
- Cirsium Horridulum
References
- USDA Plants Database, Cirsium Drummondii
- Missouri Botanical Garden, Cirsium Drummondii
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Cirsium Drummondii
