Home Weed ID Publications Dictionary Links FAQs Login About us		Plant Description: Name: annual sowthistle Scientific Name: Sonchus asper Family: Asteraceae Type: Broadleaf Lifecycle: Summer Annual Habit: Annual sowthistle is a summer annual plant which can grow up to 5 feet in height. It blooms from late spring through early fall and reproduces by means of seeds. Leaves: The leaves of annual sowthistle are alternate in arrangement. They are stiff and toothed along the edges. The upper side of the leaf is most often dark green and shiny. The leaves are seen to clasp at the stem Leaf Arrangement: Rosette Characteristics: The parachute of the seeds has allowed for the wide spread dispersal of annual sowthistle. Among its defining characteristics are stiff, spined leaves which clasp at the stem. Flower Seed Head: The flowers of annual sowthistle are yellow in color and approximately 1 inch in diameter. They bloom from late spring through early fall. Seed Fruit: The seeds of annual sowthistle are, on average, 3 mm long and 2 mm wide. They are tan in color and have a small parachute of hairs which allows for easy dispersal. Where Found: Annual sowthistle has spread throughout the majority of the United States. It is also present in many other countries, including in Europe and the rest of North America. Control Options Related Plants Terms and Definitions Additional Images:
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