distels

Distels, known in English as thistles, are a group of spiny flowering plants in the tribe Cardueae of the family Asteraceae. The term covers several genera, most notably Carduus, Cirsium, Onopordum, and Silybum. Distels are native to Eurasia and Africa but have been introduced worldwide and often become weeds in disturbed habitats, pastures, roadsides, and cultivated fields.

Morphology and identification commonly center on stiff, prickly leaves with sharp margins and robust stems that carry dense, globe-shaped flowerheads. The flower heads can be purple, pink, or occasionally yellow or white, and are surrounded by spiny bracts. Growth forms range from annuals to herbaceous perennials; some species develop long taproots and extensive root systems.

Distels reproduce by wind-dispersed seeds released from mature heads. The seeds carry a pappus that enables long-distance travel, allowing rapid colonization of disturbed soils. Many species survive as perennials, resprouting after mowing or grazing, which can complicate control efforts in agricultural landscapes.

Ecologically, distels provide nectar for pollinators, particularly bees, but they offer little forage for grazing animals and can injure livestock due to their spines. Some species have historical or cultural associations with humans; for example, milk thistle (Silybum marianum) has a medicinal reputation, and cultivated artichokes (Cynara spp.) are distant culinary relatives.

Management generally focuses on preventing seed production and reducing plant vigor through timely mowing or grazing, mechanical removal of rosettes, and, in many regions, the use of targeted herbicides. Integrated approaches are commonly required to diminish seed banks and prevent re-infestation.