Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Asteraceae

Genus:

Cirsium

Species:

Cirsium virginianum

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Biennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb

Height:

6-8 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

aug, sep, oct

Bloom Colors:

Purple

Native Range

United States: Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia

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:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

prefers open, sunny areas in native range

Germination Information