Elk thistle
Cirsium foliosum
Elk thistle is a robust native perennial of western North America, thriving in mountain meadows and open woodland edges with partial shade and average moisture. It is low-maintenance once established and produces showy purple flowerheads that are highly attractive to pollinators and seed-eating birds. Its edible roots and stalks have a history of use by indigenous peoples of the Rocky Mountain region.
Care Level
Low
Sun
Partial Shade
Water
Moderate
Growth Rate
Fast
Mature Height
12″ – 48″
Soil
loam
Life Cycle
Perennial
Spacing
24″
Flowers
white
Watering Schedule
Every 10-14 Days • Water Moderately; Plant Is Adapted To Moist Mountain Soils But Tolerates Brief Dry Spells
Soil pH
6 – 7.2
Temperature
-40° – 95°F
Mature Spread
up to 36″
Root Depth
Medium
Foliage
Coarse
Native to
Attracts
Sources
Data: trefle, usda
Image: trefle.io — Taken Jul 17, 2020 by Kai Pankatz (cc-by-sa)
No nurseries currently have this species in stock.