Cirsium palustre

RHS Plant Profile
marsh thistle
marsh thistle RHS

Other common names

ysgallen y gors

Synonyms

Carduus palustris

Annual Biennial

A native, biennial thistle reaching to around 1.5m in height, typically found growing in moist soils. The upright, spiny and hairy stem bears dark green, spiny-edged leaves and is topped by clusters of dark purple, thistle flower heads in summer

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
1–2 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Poorly–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or South–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus
Cirsium may be biennials or perennials with spiny leaves and typical thistle-type flower-heads
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
N & C Eur., NE US

How to Grow

Cultivation

Prefers a moist, acidic soil in full sun or partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free