Sonchus

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Sonchus February 2008-1

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Cerrajón herreño (Sonchus hierrensis), La Gomera, España, 2012-12-14, DD 01

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Sivone

Sonchus is a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family (Asteraceae). Commonly known as sow thistles, these plants are native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, but they have been widely introduced to other parts of the world. The genus includes both annual and perennial species, many of which are considered weeds in agricultural and garden settings.

Description

Sonchus species are characterized by their milky sap, which is a common feature in the daisy family. The plants typically have lobed or toothed leaves and produce yellow flower heads that resemble those of dandelions. The flower heads are composed of numerous small florets, each capable of producing a single seed. The seeds are equipped with a pappus, which aids in wind dispersal.

Habitat

Sonchus species are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, roadsides, and wastelands. They thrive in disturbed soils and are often found in agricultural fields, where they can become problematic weeds.

Species

The genus Sonchus includes several species, some of the most notable being:

• Sonchus oleraceus - Common sow thistle
• Sonchus asper - Prickly sow thistle
• Sonchus arvensis - Field sow thistle

Uses

While many Sonchus species are considered weeds, some have been used in traditional medicine and as a food source. The young leaves of certain species are edible and can be used in salads or cooked as greens. In some cultures, the plants are also used for their purported medicinal properties, including as a diuretic and for treating skin conditions.

Control and Management

Due to their invasive nature, Sonchus species can be challenging to control. Effective management strategies include:

• Mechanical control: Regular mowing or hand-pulling to prevent seed production.
• Chemical control: Use of herbicides, although care must be taken to avoid damage to non-target plants.
• Cultural control: Maintaining healthy, competitive vegetation to reduce the establishment of Sonchus species.

Related Pages

• Asteraceae
• Dandelion
• Weed control
• Invasive species