Spear thistle

Common weeds

Scientific name
Cirsium vulgare
Description
Erect, much-branched annual or biennial herb. Stems covered in cobwebby hairs and spines, wings continue down from leaf bases for short distances.
Weed category
Regionally controlled
How to indentify
Dark green leaves, white-velvety below, margins spiny. Leaves in a rosette. Single or 2-3 bell-shaped purple flowerheads at the ends of branches. Seeds have fluffy tails
How it spreads
  • Wind
  • Water
  • Animals (seeds attached to fur)
Suggested plant replacement
Removal methods
Plant specific removal methods

Spray with recommended herbicide. Hand weed to remove deep taproots. Remove flowerhead/seed heads.

Spiky green bulb with purple thistle at top  Close up of Spearthistle flower. A spiky green bulb shape with purple flower at top

Thank you to Shire of Yarra Ranges for assistance in compiling this directory
Information supplied on this website is intended as a guide only. While all due care has been taken, Cardinia Shire Council accepts no responsibility for the use of the information or for any errors or omissions.