Non-Noxious Thistles

Wavy Leaf Thistle

The Wavy leaf thistle is probably the most common thistle since it is native to Kansas.
It has a pale pink flower with a base shaped like an urn which makes the flower resemble the shaving brush and is in bloom from May to July.
The leaves are covered by fine white hairs giving them a dusty appearance.
Although this plant spreads by both roots and seeds, it is seldom a problem.

Bull Thistle

The Bull Thistle is also common in Dickinson County.
It is a hairy, dark green perennial plant that blooms from August to September.
The shaving-brush-like blooms are usually purple.
This plant spreads rapidly in pastures if not controlled.

Tall or Roadside Thistle

The Tall or Roadside thistle is the other commonly occurring thistle found in this area.
It is easily distinguished by a leaf that is dark green on top and silver on the bottom side.
These thistles are common along roadsides as the name implies.
They bloom in August and September, but seldom cause production losses.

Non-Noxious Thistles

Wavy Leaf Thistle

The Wavy leaf thistle is probably the most common thistle since it is native to Kansas.
It has a pale pink flower with a base shaped like an urn which makes the flower resemble the shaving brush and is in bloom from May to July.
The leaves are covered by fine white hairs giving them a dusty appearance.
Although this plant spreads by both roots and seeds, it is seldom a problem.

Bull Thistle

The Bull Thistle is also common in Dickinson County.
It is a hairy, dark green perennial plant that blooms from August to September.
The shaving-brush-like blooms are usually purple.
This plant spreads rapidly in pastures if not controlled.

Tall or Roadside Thistle

The Tall or Roadside thistle is the other commonly occurring thistle found in this area.
It is easily distinguished by a leaf that is dark green on top and silver on the bottom side.
These thistles are common along roadsides as the name implies.
They bloom in August and September, but seldom cause production losses.