Scotch Thistle

Cirsium vulgare

The Scotch Thistle, also known as a Spear Thistle, is a well-known plant. As most people know, it was introduced from the northern hemisphere and it is not indigenous to South Africa. In fact it is a highly invasive species and it is illegal to grow them in this country.

Scotch Thistles have a rugged beauty about them. The attractive purple flowers emerge from spiky bracts.

These plants can sometimes reach a height of 2 metres.

Livestock do not eat this plant so, in heavily grazed areas, it is normally the only plant left.

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