Also known as Yellow Melancholy Thistle
Yellow Thistle (Cirsium erisithales) is a striking perennial thistle with bright yellow flower heads, native to Europe and Asia. It's a valuable nectar source for pollina
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water when topsoil is dry, avoid waterlogging.
Loam, Sand, Clay, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Hardy perennial, thrives in temperate climates.
Low
25% intensity
Prefers poor to moderate soil, avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Cirsium erisithales consistently when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. While it tolerates some drought once established, regular watering promotes healthier growth and flowering.
Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Deadhead spent flower stalks to encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding if desired. Cut back the plant to the ground in late autumn or early spring to tidy its appearance and remove any dead or diseased foliage.
This also stimulates new growth.
Cirsium erisithales can be propagated by seed sown in autumn or early spring. It may also be propagated by root cuttings taken in late winter.
Division of established clumps is also possible, best done in early spring before new growth begins.
Repotting is generally not necessary for Cirsium erisithales as it is typically grown as a perennial in garden beds. If grown in a container, repot every 2-3 years in spring into a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix to prevent root circling.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Yellow Thistle (Cirsium erisithales)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cirsium |
| Species | Cirsium erisithales |
Similar in genus Cirsium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
