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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Pasture Thistle need?
- Pasture Thistle grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Pasture Thistle bloom?
- Pasture Thistle blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Pasture Thistle native?
- Pasture Thistle (Cirsium undulatum) is native to AZ, CA, CO, GA and 21 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Pasture Thistle attract?
- Pasture Thistle draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Pasture Thistle HOA-friendly?
- Pasture Thistle takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Pasture Thistle? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz