sow thistle

plant

Also known as: Sonchus

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Last updated

July 14, 2026

Quick Summary

Sow thistle refers to any plant in the genus Sonchus. These are spiny, weedy herbs that are native to Eurasia and Africa but have become naturalized in North America.1

Weeds are generally defined as plants growing where they are not wanted. Sow thistles, specifically Sonchus arvensis, are known as perennial European sow thistles. They spread via underground rhizomes and have spiny leaves and yellow flowers. These plants can also serve as hosts for certain plant diseases.23

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thistle
…more than 10 species of sow thistle (Sonchus) are widespread throughout Europe. Some species of globe thistle (Echinops) are cultivated as ornamentals. The thistle is the national emblem of Scotland.
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…more than 10 species of sow thistle (Sonchus) are widespread throughout Europe. Some species of globe thistle (Echinops) are cultivated as ornamentals. The thistle is the national emblem of Scotland.
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weed
…prickly lettuce (Lactuca scariola) and sow thistle (Sonchus species) that serve as hosts for downy mildew; wild mustards (Brassica species) that host clubroot of cabbage; and saltbrush (Atriplex species) and Russian thistle, in which curly top virus overwinters, to be carried to sugar beets by
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…prickly lettuce (Lactuca scariola) and sow thistle (Sonchus species) that serve as hosts for downy mildew; wild mustards (Brassica species) that host clubroot of cabbage; and saltbrush (Atriplex species) and Russian thistle, in which curly top virus overwinters, to be carried to sugar beets by
Read More