Species Drummond's Thistle

Drummond's Thistle

Cirsium drummondii

Also Known As - Dwarf Thistle
Drummond's Thistle (Cirsium drummondii) is a perennial herb found in the northern Great Plains of North America. Growing up to 2 feet tall, it has purplish-pink flower heads, lance-shaped leaves and spiny stems that curl inwards near the base. It prefers moist, open areas such as moist meadows, pastures and roadsides, but can also be found in dry sites. This species is of great conservation concern and is considered vulnerable due to habitat loss. This hardy thistle produces plenty of food for wildlife, pollinators and the occasional garden visitor. It can also be great for erosion control and can provide nectar in fall when other flowers have gone.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Seed Propagation,Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun

Fruits:

brown,tan Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,gray,gray

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Drummond's Thistle should be watered thoroughly and allowed to dry between waterings. Water every 2 to 3 weeks during periods of active growth, and reduce watering during winter and summer dormancy. Make sure the soil is moist but not soggy; water until it runs out of the drainage holes in the container.

sunlight

Drummond's Thistle prefers full sun; however, it can tolerate some shade. To thrive, it needs 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight a day, especially during the growing season (May to September). This species should be planted in an open, sunny spot. During the offseason, it's okay to provide slightly less sunlight; however, it's best to keep the plant out of full shade.

pruning

Drummond's Thistle is best pruned right after the main flowering period, or in early summer before the plant starts setting seed. Prune back the dead flower heads to prevent seeding, and avoid pruning any new growth coming from the center of the plant. Pruning the dead flower heads off the plant will also help stimulate new foliage growth and encourage the plant to fill in any bare spots. Avoid removing more than 1-third of the total plant material at once as it can stress the plant. It is best to only prune back stems that are at least 1-third of the size of the main stem.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Cirsium drummondii is in July and August.