Carduus nutans, commonly known as musk thistle or nodding thistle, is a biennial plant originally from temperate regions of Eurasia, including meadows, pastures, and disturbed lands. It can grow up to 9 feet tall with a robust, spiny stem and deeply lobed, spiny leaves. The plant is notable for its large, nodding flower heads that are a striking red-purple color, blooming from late spring to early summer. The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators but become drooping as they mature, which is the origin of the common name "nodding thistle." Each plant is capable of producing a staggering number of seeds, up to 120,000, which are wind-dispersed and can remain viable in the soil for over ten years, contributing to its invasive potential.

Musk thistle is often considered a weed due to its invasive nature and is not typically cultivated in gardens. However, it can be found in naturalized areas where it contributes to the local ecology by providing nectar for pollinators. In cultivation, it would require full sun to part shade, moderate water, and well-drained soil. It is not recommended for planting due to its invasive characteristics and potential to outcompete native vegetation. Gardeners should be aware of its ability to spread rapidly and should check local regulations before planting, as it is considered invasive in many regions outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0