Musk Thistle

Carduus nutans

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The Musk Thistle is a common species of chalky soils and can be found on rough grassland, roadside verges, waste ground and scrub. Its large, nodding flower heads are distinctive and appear from June to August. As with the other thistles, it is attractive to a wide range of insects and is the foodplant of the caterpillars of the Painted Lady Butterfly. Birds, such as Greenfinches and Linnets, also gorge on the seeds it produces.

How to identify

The Musk Thistle has a large, nodding flower head on each stem that comprises bright pink florets (tiny flowers) fringed by spiny bracts (leaf-like structures). Its leaves are divided and the lobes are spiny, and its stems are winged and cottony.

Where to find it

Grows across the UK, but mainly found in England and Wales.


When to find it

  • June
  • July
  • August

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Species information

Common name
Musk Thistle
Latin name
Carduus nutans
Height: up to 1m
Conservation status