Sonchus Species, Annual Sow Thistle, Cow Thistle, Hare's Colwort, Milky Tassel, Milk Thistle
Sonchusoleraceus

Category
Annuals

Water Requirements
Drought-tolerant; suitable for xeriscaping

Sun Exposure
Sun to Partial Shade

Foliage
Smooth
Velvet/Fuzzy

Foliage Color

Height
18-24 in. (45-60 cm)
24-36 in. (60-90 cm)

Spacing
24-36 in. (60-90 cm)

Hardiness
USDA Zone 7a: to -17.7 °C (0 °F)
USDA Zone 7b: to -14.9 °C (5 °F)
USDA Zone 8a: to -12.2 °C (10 °F)
USDA Zone 8b: to -9.4 °C (15 °F)
USDA Zone 9a: to -6.6 °C (20 °F)

Where to Grow

Danger
N/A

Bloom Color
Bright Yellow

Bloom Characteristics

Bloom Size

Bloom Time
Late Winter/Early Spring
Mid Spring
Late Spring/Early Summer
Mid Summer
Late Summer/Early Fall
Blooms repeatedly

Other details
May be a noxious weed or invasive

Soil pH requirements
6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic)
6.6 to 7.5 (neutral)
7.6 to 7.8 (mildly alkaline)

Patent Information
Non-patented

Propagation Methods
From seed; direct sow outdoors in fall

Seed Collecting
Allow seedheads to dry on plants; remove and collect seeds