Cirsium discolor, commonly known as Field Thistle, is a biennial or perennial herb native to a variety of habitats including moist meadows, prairies, open woodlands, and along streams and rivers in eastern and central North America. It can reach up to 79 inches in height and is characterized by its spiny, deeply lobed leaves and large, fluffy flower heads that bloom from late summer to early fall. The flowers, predominantly purple, are highly attractive to pollinators such as butterflies and bees, which makes it a valuable plant for supporting biodiversity.

Field Thistle is appreciated in cultivation for its role in pollinator gardens and naturalized areas, where it provides essential resources for wildlife. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils, but can tolerate a range of conditions including occasional wetness. While it is not typically used in formal garden settings due to its spiny texture and self-seeding habit, it is excellent for restoration projects and naturalistic plantings. Gardeners should be aware that Field Thistle can spread aggressively if not managed, and its spines can make handling difficult.CC BY-SA 4.0