Sonchus Arvensis
Contents
Description
Sonchus Arvensis, commonly known as the perennial sowthistle, is a plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe and western Asia, but it can now be found in many parts of the world, including North America, Australia, and New Zealand. This plant is considered a weed due to its invasive nature, and it can be found in fields, pastures, gardens, and disturbed areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Sonchus |
Appearance
Sonchus Arvensis can grow up to 1.5 meters tall, and its stem is smooth, hollow, and slightly ribbed. The leaves are alternate, lance-shaped, and lobed, with a wavy or toothed margin. The flowers are yellow and arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. The plant produces a fluffy, white seed head that can be easily dispersed by the wind.
Care Guide
Sonchus Arvensis is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types and light conditions. It prefers moist, fertile soil, but it can tolerate drought and poor soil. It can grow in full sun or partial shade. This plant does not require fertilization, but it can benefit from a light application of compost or organic matter. It is important to control the spread of this plant by removing any seed heads before they mature.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sonchus Arvensis is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust. These fungal diseases can be controlled by improving air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. The plant may attract aphids and other sap-sucking insects, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Sonchus Arvensis is commonly found in disturbed areas, such as fields, pastures, roadsides, and gardens. It can also grow in natural habitats, such as wetlands and meadows. This plant prefers temperate climates, but it can tolerate a range of temperatures and moisture levels.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sonchus Arvensis toxic to humans or animals?
A: Sonchus Arvensis is not considered toxic to humans or animals, but it can be mildly irritating to the skin and mucous membranes.
Q: How can I control the spread of Sonchus Arvensis in my garden?
A: The best way to control the spread of Sonchus Arvensis is to remove any seed heads before they mature. You can also hand-pull the plants or use an herbicide that is labeled for this species.
Q: Can Sonchus Arvensis be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Sonchus Arvensis has been used in traditional medicine for its diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. However, more research is needed to determine its safety and efficacy.
Q: How can I prevent Sonchus Arvensis from invading my lawn?
A: You can prevent Sonchus Arvensis from invading your lawn by maintaining a healthy, thick turf that can outcompete the weed. You can also hand-pull any plants that appear and use a pre-emergent herbicide in the spring.
Related Plants
- Sonchus Asper
- Sonchus Oleraceus
- Sonchus Hydrophilus
- Sonchus Palustris
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Sonchus arvensis. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SOAR
- Weeds of Australia. (n.d.). Sonchus arvensis. Retrieved from https://weedinfo.com.au/weeds-of-national-significance/sonchus-arvensis/
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension. (2019). Sonchus arvensis (Perennial Sowthistle). Retrieved from https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/weedsci/2019/03/13/sonchus-arvensis-perennial-sowthistle/
