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NOXIOUS
WEED CONTROL AUTHORITY
3015 Menke Circle
Omaha, NE. 68134
(402) 444-4583
Canada Thistle
(Cirsium arvense L.)
Life Span: Perennial
Origin: Eurasia and North Africa
Reproduction: Rhizomes (roots) and seeds
This plant is one of the reasons why there is a noxious
weed law
in place today. Back in the early 1900's, the Noxious Weed Act
was known as the Canada Thistle Law, which gave a person the
right to eradicate Canada Thistle on anyone's property, including
their own, and not be held for trespassing.
(Click on Picture for Larger View)
It was introduced from southeastern Eurasia into Canada
as a contaminant in crop seed as early as
the 18th century. It is found throughout the North Central and Northwestern
parts of the U.S., as
well as in most of Canada. By the way, its not "Canadian" but
Canada Thistle.
The reason this plant is considered noxious is:
1. Its a deep rooted perennial and forms colonies.
2. Spreads by root sections, as well as by seeds.
3. Loves pastures and hay meadows, can be found in No-till crops.
4. Very costly to control.
5.. Negative impact on Agriculture Economics.
Canada Thistle grows from a rosette in the early part of the season to
a plant about 3 to 4 feet tall.
The white-pink-purple flowers are clumped together forming a small seed
head. The Leaves have
very short spines and are shallow lobed. Canada Thistle is different from
all other Thistles by the
fact that it needs a male and female plant in the vicinity to create seeds.
It also spreads by rhizomes
(creeping roots) just below the surface, causing it to be found in tight
patches.
CONTROL
METHODS
For a more detailed description of Canada Thistle,
check out theNebraska Weed Control Association
Website.
For more information on Canada Thistle in Douglas County,
please call 444-4583 or email DCNWC.