Why is it called sow thistle?

It got the name Sow Thistle from the fact that when cut the plant exudes a latex like milk which was believed to help lactation in mothering sows. It has been used as fodder for many animals, particularly rabbits and pigs.

Where is sow thistle native to?

Sow thistles are common roadside plants, and while native to Eurasia and tropical Africa, they are found almost worldwide in temperate regions. Mature sow thistle stems can range from 30 cm to 2 m (1 to 6 ft) tall, depending upon species and growing conditions.

What is sow thistle good for?

Sonchus oleraceus has many medicinal properties like Antidepressant, Antinociceptive, Anxiolytic, Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Antitumor, Antimalarial, blood purifier, hepatic, sedative, febrifuge, tonic, Anti-inflammatory, Anticancer etc. Stems and leaves are also used in cooking by local peoples.

Is sow thistle milk thistle?

The Sow Thistles are sometimes erroneously called Milk Thistles from the milky juice they contain; the true Milk Thistle is, however, a very different plant (see THISTLES). The Latin name of the species, oleraceus, refers to the use to which this weed has been put as an esculent vegetable.

What kind of thistle is a sow thistle?

The perennial sow thistle (Sonchus arvensis) is often confused with the annual sow thistle (Sonchus oleraceus).

Where did prickly sow thistle get its name?

The origin of the name ‘Sow Thistle’ is ancient but obscure. Sonchus asper is a major problem in winter crops and in tillage systems throughout southern Australia, South-East Queensland and Northern New South Wales. Its edible leaves make a palatable and nutritious leaf vegetable.

What kind of weeds are called milk thistles?

Sow thistles are known as “milk thistles” in some regions, although true milk thistles belong to the genus Silybum . In many areas sow thistles are considered noxious weeds, as they grow quickly in a wide range of conditions and their wind-borne seeds allow them to spread rapidly.

Where are the flowers on a dandelion Thistle?

Dandelion only has one flower per stalk. Sow thistle leaves grow all the way up the stalk, as well as at the base of the plant. Dandelion leaves are only at the base. Sow thistle stems are unbranched until towards the top where it braches out and flowers develop.