How much sun does Field Sow Thistle need?

Field Sow Thistle grows best in part shade conditions.

When does Field Sow Thistle bloom?

Field Sow Thistle blooms in June, July, August, and September.

Where is Field Sow Thistle native?

Field Sow Thistle (Sonchus arvensis) is native to MS, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

What pollinators does Field Sow Thistle attract?

Field Sow Thistle draws bees, beetles, and flies.

Is Field Sow Thistle HOA-friendly?

Field Sow Thistle takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Field Sow Thistle

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Sonchus arvensis

Last reviewed: June 2026

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

24"–60" H × 12"–24" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

Pollinators

bees, beetles, flies

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Central Basin and Range

Field sow thistle is a tall perennial wildflower that produces bright yellow daisy-like blooms from summer through early fall. This robust plant can reach up to 5 feet tall and spreads moderately, making it better suited for naturalized areas than formal gardens.

In an HOA neighborhood

Field Sow Thistle takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

Commonly considered a weed
Aggressive spreading habit
Informal appearance resembles dandelions

Wildlife value

The yellow flowers attract a variety of pollinators including bees, beetles, and flies throughout the long blooming season. Seeds also provide food for goldfinches and other small birds in fall.

Common questions

How much sun does Field Sow Thistle need?: Field Sow Thistle grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Field Sow Thistle bloom?: Field Sow Thistle blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Field Sow Thistle native?: Field Sow Thistle (Sonchus arvensis) is native to MS, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Field Sow Thistle attract?: Field Sow Thistle draws bees, beetles, and flies.
Is Field Sow Thistle HOA-friendly?: Field Sow 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 Field Sow Thistle? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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