Carduus crispus, commonly known as curly plumeless thistle, is a biennial herb that is native to Europe and Asia but has become naturalized in various regions of North America. It typically grows up to 3 feet tall and thrives in a range of habitats, including meadows, fields, and disturbed areas. The plant has a distinctive appearance with wavy, spiny leaves that feature a woolly white underside. From May to July, it produces showy pink to purple disk-shaped flowers that are attractive to pollinators but can be a nuisance due to its invasive nature.

Curly plumeless thistle is known for its resilience and can be a problem in pastures and natural areas due to its aggressive growth and tendency to form dense stands. It prefers full sun and can tolerate a variety of soil conditions, although it is often found in areas with poor, compacted soil. In cultivation, it is not commonly used due to its invasive potential and spiny foliage. Gardeners should be cautious and consider the ecological impact before planting. It is often controlled through mechanical removal or herbicides.CC BY-SA 4.0