Pet Safe
moderate Care
annual sow thistle
Sonchus oleraceus
Annual Sow Thistle (Sonchus oleraceus) is an erect, branched herbaceous plant. It is a annual which grows in clumps up to 1m tall. It has a few to many bristly, spiny-toothed leaves, with wavy margins, and a small yellow flower head. It is native to Eurasia and has been naturalized in North America. It is a highly invasive species, outcompeting native plants. It is commonly used as a medicinal plant and the leaves can be eaten raw or cooked.
Sunlight
Partial Shade
Water Needs
high
USDA Hardiness Zones
Zone 4
Hardiness Map
Green areas show climates worldwide where this plant can grow.
Zone 4
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Water Every
"7-10" days
Sun Needs
partial-shade
Growth
High
Care Level
Low
Watering Schedule
Frequency
Day 1"7-10" daysDay NaN
💧 Water every "7-10" days
Seasonal Adjustments
Adjust watering frequency based on temperature, humidity, and season. Water more frequently in summer and less in winter.
Pro Tip: Check soil moisture before watering. Stick your finger 1-2 inches into the soil—if it's dry, it's time to water!
Season
Fall
Sep Oct Nov
Winter
Dec Jan Feb
Spring
Mar Apr May
Summer
Jun Jul Aug
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
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Starts Flowering
Starts Flowering
Starts Flowering
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Pruning Time
Flowering
How to Propagate
Seed Propagation
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date
Division
Divide root ball in spring, replant sections immediately
Cutting
Take 4-6" cuttings in spring, root in water or moist soil
Layering Propagation
Bend stem to soil surface, cover lightly, roots form in 4-6 weeks
Root Cutting
Take 4-6" cuttings in spring, root in water or moist soil
Is This Plant Right for You?
Good For:
- •Homes with pets
Consider Carefully:
- •Indoor growing
- •Infrequent watering
Bloom Seasons
spring
Care Tips
Light Requirements
Enjoys dappled or limited direct sun—about 2–4 hours of morning or late afternoon light and protection during peak midday sun.
Watering
Requires frequent watering to maintain moist soil. Don't let the soil dry out completely.
Best Planting Time
Plant in early spring or fall for best results. Blooms in spring.