Cirsium muticum
swamp thistle
 
You are likely reading this because you searched “thistle” on our website in which case we think you rock. Although the thistle is much aligned it's actually a high-value nectar plant and very benficial to our native insects and birds. Often the aggressive non-native thistles leave people thinking thistles are problematic. BUT…this being one of our native thistles, it is much tamer than the non-native thistles…you just need the right spot for it. But maybe you already knew this!
 
Cirsium muticum has vibrant purple/pink flowers and is a biennial, preferring moist to wet soils in full to part sun. It generally grows to 5’ tall in a garden setting and taller in a wilder setting. It can be pushy so if you choose this plant for a small garden just keep it in check.

Hummingbirds will drink the high-value nectar and Cirsium muticum is one of the host plant (caterpillars need the leaves to survive) for the Painted Lady Butterflies. Song birds will stop by and consume the seeds. This species is one that’s recommended by Dr. Robert Gegear as it supports the at-risk Golden northern bumble bee and the Half-black bumble bee.
 
Plants can be purchased in-person or online (with in-person pick-up). 
All online orders will be ready for pick-up 24-72 hours after purchase. You will receive an email to let you know when your order is ready. We kindly ask that you pick-up any orders within one week of purchase.