Family: Asteraceae
Author: Nutt.
Bibliography: Trans. Amer. Philos. Soc., ser. 2, 7: 420 (1841)
Year: 1841
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Cirsium
Vegetable: False
Observations: Canada to NW. Mexico
Description
The Meadow Thistle, scientifically known as Cirsium scariosum, is a distinguished member of the Asteraceae family. This resilient perennial plant is native to a broad geographic range, flourishing from the expansive landscapes of Canada down through to the diverse terrains of Northwestern Mexico. The first comprehensive description of this species was chronicled in the “Transactions of the American Philosophical Society” in the year 1841, with the celebrated botanist Thomas Nuttall credited for its documentation.
Cirsium scariosum thrives in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands, displaying a remarkable adaptability to different soil types and climates within its range. The plant typically exhibits a robust growth habit, characterized by its erect and often spiny stems that can reach substantial heights. The foliage of the Meadow Thistle is distinctly lobed and adorned with spine-tipped margins, contributing to its recognizable and somewhat formidable appearance.
The flowers of Cirsium scariosum are a true spectacle, manifesting in dense clusters at the terminals of the stems. Each inflorescence is composed of numerous tubular florets that radiate in shades of deep purple to pink, occasionally blooming in a more muted white hue. These vibrant flowers not only enhance the visual appeal of the plant but also play a crucial role in attracting a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, thus supporting the local ecosystem’s biodiversity.
Botanical studies and observations suggest that the Meadow Thistle has adapted various mechanisms for survival and propagation. Its ability to produce a substantial number of seeds aids in the species’ resilience and spread across a vast area. Furthermore, the plant’s spiny exterior serves as a deterrent to herbivores, ensuring its longevity in the wild.
In summary, the Meadow Thistle (Cirsium scariosum) stands as a notable species within the Asteraceae family, appreciated not only for its striking floral display but also for its ecological significance. The documentation by Nuttall in 1841 laid the foundation for our understanding of this plant, which continues to thrive across a substantial part of North America, showcasing nature’s remarkable ability to adapt and flourish.
Common Names
Fra: chardon écailleux
Eng: elk thistle, meadow thistle
En: Meadow thistle, Elk thistle
Fr: Chardon écailleux
Synonyms
- Carduus scariosus ((Nutt.) A.Heller)
- Cirsium hookerianum var. scariosum ((Nutt.) B.Boivin)
Distribution
- Alberta (native)
- Arizona (native)
- British Columbia (native)
- California (native)
- Colorado (native)
- Idaho (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Montana (native)
- Nevada (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Oregon (native)
- Québec (native)
- Utah (native)
- Washington (native)
- Wyoming (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Sep 7, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 7, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 7, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 27, 2013 by EOL − Sam McNally (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 21, 2013 by EOL − tomhilton (cc-by)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3113127)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:59154-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Cirsium scariosum (Poir.) Nutt.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
