annual sow thistle (Sonchus oleraceus) plant — close-up photo
Easy to grow

annual sow thistle

Sonchus oleraceus

Overview

Annual Sow Thistle (Sonchus oleraceus) is an erect, branched herbaceous plant. It is a annual which grows in clumps up to 1m tall. It has a few to many bristly, spiny-toothed leaves, with wavy margins, and a small yellow flower head. It is native to Eurasia and has been naturalized in North America. It is a highly invasive species, outcompeting native plants. It is commonly used as a medicinal plant and the leaves can be eaten raw or cooked.

Care Guide

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Watering

Frequent — every "7-10" days.

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Light

Full sun, Part sun/part shade.

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Temperature

Hardiness zone 4-4.

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Pruning

Best pruned in March, April.

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Propagation

Seed Propagation, Division, Cutting, Layering Propagation, Root Cutting

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