Creeping Thistle /Cirsium arvense/

It is a variable-looking species of the Asteraceae family. The plant is widely found throughout the territory of Latvia. Individual specimens and groups of various sizes grow in gardens, fields, near habitats, along roads and railways, as well as in various weed areas.

It is a perennial plant, medium to large in size (50-130 cm). The root system is robust, with creeping rhizomes. The leaves have serrated edges, and the flowers are pale pink or violet. It blooms from late June to October.

Creeping thistle is challenging to eradicate and can be problematic in grain fields, gardens, and young forest stands as a weed. Due to vegetative propagation, it can take over entire fields, outcompeting cultivated plants.

Information sources: www.latvijasdaba.lv, Wikipedia