Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Asteraceae

Genus:

Cirsium

Species:

Cirsium crassicaule

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Annual

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb

Height:

8-12 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

apr, may, jun

Bloom Colors:

White, Pink, Purple

Native Range

United States: California

Keystone Species Ranking

Bee Keystone:

★★☆☆☆ Based on number of native bee species using this genus for pollen and nectar (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

commonly found in arid regions