Flower Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| English Name | Spear Thistle |
| Scientific Name | Cirsium vulgare |
| MainColor | Purple |
| PlantType |  Herb |
| Distribution |  Native |
| Season Found | July (Jul - Oct) |
| ImageUrl | Cirsium-004 |
| Photographer | DP |
| Location Found | Abbots Langley |
| Country Found | UK |
| Last Updated | 14 September 2026 |
| Photo Quality | A |
Flower Details
Description
Spear Thistle is a biennial plant known for its spiny leaves and purple flower heads. It can grow up to 1.5 metres tall and is characterised by its deeply lobed leaves with sharp spines. The flowers are clustered in dense heads, attracting various pollinators.
Distribution
Native to Europe and Asia, Spear Thistle is now widespread in temperate regions across the world, often found in pastures, roadsides, and disturbed lands.
Medicinal/Other Uses
— No significant medicinal uses.
Edibility
Edible - young leaves and stems can be eaten when cooked, but care must be taken to remove spines.
Human Toxicity
Non_ToxicNon Toxic - no known toxic effects on humans.
Pet Toxicity
Non Toxic - considered safe for household pets.
Active Compounds
Linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid.