Pasture Thistle
Cirsium undulatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, GA and 21 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Pasture thistle is a native perennial with deeply lobed leaves and purple flower heads that bloom through summer. This drought-tolerant plant forms compact clumps and goes dormant in winter, leaving behind dried stems and seed heads.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pasture Thistle takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Thistle name creates negative perception
- Spiny foliage appears aggressive
- Winter dormancy looks untidy
Wildlife value
The purple blooms are magnets for bees and butterflies during summer months. Seeds provide food for finches and other small birds in fall.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Pasture Thistle fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.