Milk Thistle
Silybum marianum
Milk Thistle sports bold, white-veined leaves and striking purple flowers, with spines along the leaf edges. Traditionally known for its medicinal properties, it is often found in waste ground or rough coastal grassland. On Lihou, look for its large, spiky rosettes in sunnier spots, where it can establish quickly in well-drained soils.
- Habitat: Coastal grasslands, rough or disturbed areas, nutrient-rich soils.
- When to See: Flowers from late spring to mid-summer; distinctive leaves visible earlier.
- Length: Can grow 30–100 cm tall.