Flodman's Thistle
Cirsium flodmanii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CO, IA, IL, KS and 8 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Flodman's thistle is a native prairie wildflower that produces purple blooms on tall stems during summer months. This drought-tolerant perennial grows in clumps and can reach up to 4 feet tall with spiny leaves and stems typical of thistle plants.
In an HOA neighborhood
Flodman's 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.
- Spiny appearance looks aggressive and weedy to most homeowners
- Common name includes 'thistle' which has negative associations
- Can self-seed and spread beyond intended areas
Wildlife value
The purple flowers are valuable nectar sources for native bees, butterflies, and beetles during summer blooming season. Seeds provide food for goldfinches and other songbirds 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 Flodman's Thistle fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.