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Perennial Sow Thistle

Perennial Sow Thistle

Sonchus arvensis

herbaceous☀️ full sun💧💧 moderate waterZone 3a – Zone 9b

A tall perennial weed with yellow dandelion-like flowers and milky sap, commonly found in disturbed areas and fields. Often considered invasive due to its deep taproot and ability to spread vegetatively.

Overview

Form
Upright
Growth Rate
fast
Size
1.5–4′ tall × 1–2′ wide
Dormancy
deciduous

Tolerances & Soil

low
Zone 3aZone 9b
1471013
ColderWarmer
Zone range: Zone 3a to Zone 9b

Seasonality

Bloom Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Harvest Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Season of Interest

SummerFall

Herb

Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.

Succession Role

pioneerearly successional

Native Range

Europe and western Asia

Function & Care

dynamic accumulatorediblemedicinalpollinator nectarywildlife benefit

Edible Parts

leafrootshoot

Establishment & Care

Establishment
easy
Maintenance
high
Years to Bearing
1 years
Propagation
seed, root cutting

Companion Planting

Plants well with