Home Weed ID Publications Dictionary Links FAQs Login About us		Plant Description: Name: musk thistle Scientific Name: Carduus nutans Family: Asteraceae Type: Broadleaf Lifecycle: Biennial Habit: This erect biennial can be found flowering from mid spring into early summer. Leaves: The leaves initially form a basal rosette, however in the second year the flowering stem emerges, and the leaves on the stem will grow in an alternate fashion. The individual leaves are deeply lobed with 1 to 5 spines at the tip. All leaves are dark green with white veins, and progressively get smaller as you move up the plant. Leaf Arrangement: Alternate Characteristics: This plant produces a musky scent, giving it its name. Flower Seed Head: The solitary flowers grow at the ends of branches. Each pink or violet flower has purple tinged spiny bracts below it. Seed Fruit: The seeds develop in a brownish oblong achene. Each achene has a white pappus that resembles small hairs. Where Found: This plant can be found along roadsides and other disturbed areas. Control Options Related Plants Terms and Definitions Additional Images:
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