BACKGROUND: A native to southeastern Eurasia, Canada thistle reproduces by seeds and rootstock. It is adaptable to a diverse range of habitats.

DESCRIPTION: Canada thistle is a creeping herbaceous perennial plant usually from 1 to 4 feet tall, in sparse to extremely dense colonies. Leaves have spiny tipped lobes. Flowerheads are light pink to purple and are typically 3/4 inch in diameter. Bracts are softly spined. Bloom occurs in July and August.

CONTROL: Several biocontrol agents are available offering fair control. Herbicides can offer good control when applied to actively growing plants from spring to fall. As with most creeping perennials, digging or tillage is generally not effective.