Family: Asteraceae
Author: Buckley
Bibliography: Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philadelphia 1861: 460 (1862)
Year: 1862
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Cirsium
Vegetable: False
Observations: U.S.A. to NE. Mexico
Description
Texas purple thistle, scientifically known as Cirsium texanum, is a striking species within the diverse Asteraceae family. This plant is notable for its vibrant, eye-catching purple flowers that bloom predominantly in the temperate regions of the United States and extend into northeastern Mexico. The taxonomic classification and initial description of this species were provided by the esteemed botanist Buckley, whose findings were published in the Proceedings of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia in 1861.
One of the distinguishing features of the Texas purple thistle is its adaptation to various environments within its range, from open fields to roadsides and prairies. Typically, the plant thrives in well-drained soils and areas that receive ample sunlight, making it a resilient native species in its distribution zones.
The aesthetic appeal of Cirsium texanum lies in its tall, spiny stems that give rise to spherical flower heads adorned with elongated, purple florets. These florets not only contribute to the visual charm of the landscapes they populate but also play a crucial role in local ecosystems. Texas purple thistle serves as an important nectar source for pollinators, including bees and butterflies, thus supporting biodiversity and ecological balance.
In addition to its ecological importance, the Texas purple thistle exhibits certain biological adaptations that contribute to its survival and propagation. Its spiny structure is a natural deterrent to herbivores, while its deep root system allows it to access water efficiently, even in arid conditions. The seed dispersal mechanism of Cirsium texanum involves the production of lightweight seeds that can be carried by the wind, facilitating the spread of the species across suitable habitats.
This robust plant is not only a subject of interest for botanists and horticulturists but also a valued component of native flora in its regions. Efforts to conserve and protect the Texas purple thistle are essential to maintaining the natural heritage and ecological health of the areas where it grows.
In summary, the Texas purple thistle (Cirsium texanum) is a remarkable species that encapsulates the beauty and resilience of the flora in the southern United States and northeastern Mexico. Its vivid purple blooms, ecological significance, and adaptive features make it a noteworthy plant within the Asteraceae family, deserving both appreciation and conservation attention.
Common Names
Eng: texas purple thistle, texas thistle, southern thistle
En: Texas purple thistle, Texas thistle, Southern thistle
Synonyms
- Cirsium ochrocentrum var. helleri (Petr.)
- Carduus austrinus (Small)
- Cirsium austrinum (E.D.Schulz)
- Cirsium texanum var. stenolepis (Shinners)
- Cirsium undulatum subsp. helleri (Petr.)
- Carduus helleri (Small)
- Cirsium helleri ((Small) Cory)
Distribution
- Arkansas (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Missouri (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Texas (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Jun 26, 2021 by Filippo Ferrati (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 8, 2017 by Nat Attack (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 29, 2019 by Ryan Shar (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 30, 2021 by Grayson Gregory (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 16, 2019 by Dawn (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Jun 6, 2020 by Guillaume Guillaume Delmas (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 21, 2021 by Shelle Balthrop (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 29, 2022 by Jeremy Maxwell (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 29, 2022 by Jeremy Maxwell (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 23, 2021 by Summer Brunn (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jun 5, 2015 by EOL − Linda Jo Conn (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 10, 2015 by EOL − timarcus (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 10, 2015 by EOL − timarcus (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 29, 2015 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 20, 2015 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)
Fruit
Taken Jun 14, 2022 by L P (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Jun 14, 2022 by L P (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3113276)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:196112-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Cirsium texanum Buckley)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb