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WANTED Musk Thistle

This native of southern Europe and Asia invades pasture and forestlands, ditch banks, and stream banks. Where permitted, its thick growth capability in combination with its spiny nature can inhibit the use of an area for people and animals. Chemical, and recently, biological controls are effective on this aggressive plant.

Distinguishing Features Up to six feet tall. Leaves are waxy, up to ten inches long, spiny, deeply lobed (five points per lobe), and dark green with a light green midrib and white margins. Flowers are solitary with nodding flower heads that develop at the stem tips in midsummer and grow to a diameter of one-and-a-half to three inches. Blossoms are deep rose to violet in color, and sometimes, white and surrounded by lance-shaped, spine tipped, bracts.

If You Spot This Culprit, Report the location to a local land manager or park ranger. Avoid walking on, driving on, or camping in infested areas. Remove all weed seeds from your clothing, shoes, pets, camping gear, and tire treads before moving on.

We have reason to believe this criminal weed is hiding out in the surrounding area.

We Need Your Help!

Reward: Knowing you have contributed to a healthier environment.

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Last Updated: January 25, 2005

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