Plant Exploration

Italian Thistle

1. PLANT EXPLORATION

2. Scientific and Common Name
Scientific Name:
Carduus
pycnocephalus
Common Name:
Italian plumeless
thistle

3. Classification
KingdomPlantae
Division
Magnoliophyta
ClassMagnoliopsida
SubclassAsteridae
OrderAsterales
FamilyAsteraceae–
GenusCarduusL.
Species
Carduuspycnocephal
usL.

4. Structures
Stem: contains wing-like
spines that jut from stem.
Leaves: green, divided
into segments which are
spiny.
Flowers: slight tint of
purple , skinny or
narrow, stiff spines at base
of each flower. Clusters
range from one to five.
Seeds: have hairs
attached to each end. The
color is of a hazelnut
brown.

5. Function
Adapts to different
environments
Reproduces at a
quick & steady rate.
Adaptations &
reproduction lead to
a high survival rate.