Weed Science
Weed Science

Bull Thistle (Cirsium vulgare)

Bull Thistle (Cirsium vulgare)

Bull Thistle (Cirsium vulgare)


Bull Thistle

Other Names:  

Life Cycle:  Biennial

Description:  The bull thistle is primarily a pasture weed having spiny-winged stems and leaves.  The leaves have rough hairs on the upper surface and soft hairs on the lower.  It is often confused with musk thistle, which usually lacks the leaf hairs. 

Additional photos

Herbicide Options:  Response of Pasture Weeds to Herbicides and Mowing - AGR 207

Contact Information

105 Plant Science Building Lexington, KY 40506-0312