Sonchus oleraceus L.

Common Sow Thistle

Herb

Annual

Vascular

Common Sow Thistle is an introduced annual or biennial in the Aster family (Asteraceae). It is native to the Mediterranean region, but has been introduced worldwide. In Alabama, Common Sow Thistle can be found throughout the state. Common Sow Thistle occurs in disturbed sites such as along roads and rail roads, in parking lots, along buildings and sidewalks, on vacant lots, and in waste areas. It is an annual or biennial from a tap root. Usually a single stem up to 3 feet in height is produced from each tap root. The stems are hollow and contain a milky sap. Stems are often branched above the middle. The leaves are basal and cauline. The basal leaves are larger than the cauline leaves. Leaves are spathulate to oblong or lanceolate in outline and pinnately lobed with toothed margins. The terminal lobe is the largest. The bases of the leaves are auriculate (clasp the stem). The leaves contain a milky sap. Flowers are produced in heads. The heads produce only ray flowers. Rays are yellow or white in color. The fruit is an achene. The achene is reddish brown in color and has a long “beak” with a crown of white pappus.--A. Diamond

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Not Native FACU (NWPL)

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