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Description
Cirsium Occidentale Var. Venustum is a species of thistle that is native to North America. It is commonly known as the western thistle and is a member of the Asteraceae family. This plant grows up to 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide, with deeply lobed leaves that are green on top and silver underneath. The flowers are pinkish-purple and bloom from mid-summer to early fall. This plant is drought tolerant and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cirsium |
Appearance
Cirsium Occidentale Var. Venustum has deeply lobed leaves that are green on top and silver underneath. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide, with a single stem and no branching. The flowers are pinkish-purple and bloom from mid-summer to early fall. The plant produces a taproot and can be difficult to transplant once established.
Care Guide
Cirsium Occidentale Var. Venustum is a drought-tolerant plant and does not require frequent watering. However, it prefers well-draining soil and should not be left in standing water. Fertilization is not necessary for this plant, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can encourage growth. This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 6-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cirsium Occidentale Var. Venustum is not usually affected by pests or diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if left in standing water. In addition, the plant may attract aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Cirsium Occidentale Var. Venustum is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including meadows, grasslands, and open woods. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cirsium Occidentale Var. Venustum a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, this plant attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Is Cirsium Occidentale Var. Venustum difficult to transplant?
A: Yes, this plant produces a taproot and can be difficult to transplant once established.
Q: Does Cirsium Occidentale Var. Venustum require frequent watering?
A: No, this plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cirsium Occidentale Var. Venustum?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-10.
Related Plants
- Cirsium arvense
- Cirsium discolor
- Cirsium horridulum
- Cirsium vulgare
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CIORV
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/cirsium-occidentale-western-thistle
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/cirsium_occidentale_var_venustum.shtml
