Common Sow-Thistle

Sonchus oleraceus

This is a very common weed in sunny, usually disturbed, places. From the basal leaves rises a smooth green stem, branching occasionally, especially near the top where it holds several clusters of buds. These open as yellow dandelion-like flowers (all rays) about 3/4 inch across. The leaves are lance- shaped, with wavy or indented edges and spines along the edges; they clasp the smooth stem and come to two points on either side of it where they clasp it. Lower leaves are more variable; some are deeply lobed and pinnate in form (see picture lower left).  Flowers usually close by afternoon.  After blooming, they form seeds with a white pappus to catch the wind and spread seed.

1-8 feet (seldom over 3 feet), sun.

Summer-Autumn (June-October).

  The spiny-edged, clasping leaves.

14 July 2020.

Common Sow-Thistle, 14 July 2020.

Leaves showing a more deeply lobed, pinnatified form.

25 June 2020.

        A flower going to seed.

                    2 August 2020.