Creeping thistle is a tough plant that brings a pop of purple to sunny spots.
Creeping thistle is a prickly perennial herb originally native to Eurasia and northern Africa. It grows best outdoors in full sun, reaching anywhere from 0.3 to 1.5 meters tall. Though it can be invasive in many regions, it settles in comfortably alongside native grasses.
This plant grows quickly and takes minimal care to keep alive. It tolerates drought well, requires only moderate watering, and spreads through an extensive underground root system. You can easily start new plants using seeds or root division.
Despite its sharp reputation, creeping thistle has plenty of charm to offer. Its purple summer flowers attract bees and butterflies to your yard. As a bonus, its leaves and roots are edible and completely safe around pets and humans.