Cirsium horridulum

Easily identified by its spiny leaves and reddish purple flowers (flowers are yellow in Texas). It is sometimes confused with Sonchus sp., or sow-thistle, probably because they are both called thistles and have spiny leaves. Sonchus is easily identified by its smaller inflorescence and milky sap.

Seeds collected during the summer and placed at room temperature on moist toweling in September showed poor germination (Davis et al. 1964).

Known as "chardron" to the Acadians of south Louisiana (Holmes 1990). It is found in old fields, roadsides and lawns throughout south Louisiana and east and central Texas. The stems may be harvested in early spring, before other salad greens are available, and eaten as a celery substitute.

Open places, especially in sandy soil or along salt and fresh marshes.

Young flowering stems can be eaten like celery.