Perennial Sow Thistle

(Sonchus arvensis)

Roots: Extensive, may penetrate soil five to ten feet deep, new plants produced by small root pieces.

Stems: Milky sap throughout the plant, erect, 2-5 feet tall.

Leaves: Deeply lobed to nearly entire, clasping base, mildly prickly margins but lack spines on the lower midrib.

Seed: Tufted, spread by wind.

Flowers: Yellow, up to 2 inches wide with flower stalks and flower base (bracts)covered with gland tipped hairs.

Origin: Eurasia or Europe

Poisoning: Unknown