Water
Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to maintain consistently moist soil. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering in cooler months when the plant is dormant.
Ensure good drainage to prevent fungal diseases.
Also known as Ciulin · Cruel Thistle · Plume Thistle
Cirsium ferox is a robust, spiny herbaceous perennial with prickly leaves and large, showy purple flower heads, often found in open, disturbed habitats.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
Regular
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Reduce in cooler months.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperate climates. Can tolerate a range of temperatures, but protect from extreme heat or frost.
Low
25% intensity
Light feeding in spring with balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to maintain consistently moist soil. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering in cooler months when the plant is dormant.
Ensure good drainage to prevent fungal diseases.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming and prevent self-seeding if desired. Cut back foliage in late autumn or early spring to remove dead or damaged parts and tidy the plant's appearance.
This also helps prevent pest and disease overwintering.
Propagate by seed sown in autumn or early spring, either directly outdoors or in a cold frame. Division of established clumps in early spring is another effective method.
Ensure seeds are fresh for best germination rates.
Cirsium ferox is a perennial that typically does not require frequent repotting. If grown in a container, repot every 2-3 years in spring into a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix to refresh the soil and provide more space.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Cirsium Ferox (Cirsium ferox)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cirsium |
| Species | Cirsium ferox |
Similar in genus Cirsium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
