Ashley National Forest

Noxious Weeds Program

Scotch Thistle

(a.k.a. Onopordum aeanthium)

Distinguishing Features

• Reaches 8 to 10 feet in height
• Stems are erect, branching sharp spiny leaf wings extend down to stem
• Basal leaves may be over 2 feet long and 1 foot wide
• Leaves are coarsely lobed; fine, dense hair on both sides; sharp spines on margin
• Flowers are violet to reddish, 1 to 2 inches in diameter; solitary and numerous

Crimes Committed

• Choking & the deliberate takeover of native plants
• Stealing lands, homes & food from wildlife
• Corrupting & invading open lands, roadsides & recreation areas
• Costing a bundle for taxpayers to control
• Wreaking havoc & mayhem on innocent, unsuspecting ecosystems

Join the Invasive Weed Patrol

• Help stop the spread of this weedy, seedy, desperado
• Report any sightings to local land managers or rangers
• Remove all weed seeds from clothing, shoes, pets, camping gear & tire treads

Your Reward

• Healthy Ecosystems on Your Public Lands