It is also a threat because its sharp spines can injure the mouths and feet of grazing animals. Plant Characteristics Distaff thistle is native to the Mediterranean region of Europe. Young plants survive winter and early spring as low-growing rosettes. Mature plants are tall, rigid and spiny, growing up to 4 feet. The dense, intricately branched flower stalks are supported by stout stems which are unbranched on the lower third, giving plants a top-heavy appearance.
Stems are white to pale green and can have woolly hairs.
Rosette leaves are deeply divided and spine tipped. Stem leaves are also deeply divided and spiny. Flowers, which bloom from late spring through summer, are yellow. Although distaff thistle matures in summer, it is considered a winter annual because it germinates from fall through mid-winter. Normally, young plants, which exist as low-growing rosettes through winter, are not readily apparent until stems sprout up in late spring.