Status: Native
Synonyms:
Carduus neomexicanus (Gray) Greene
Cnicus ochrocentrus (Gray) Gray
Cirsium neomexicanum is our most common roadside thistle in the Gila Wilderness. It has reflexed outer phyllaries and a pale pink-purple almost spherical inflorescence that blooms early in the spring. The leaves are spiny. Cirsium neomexicanum branches like a candelabra from a point about 2/3 to the top when it has not been disturbed or mowed. The similar Cirsium ochrocentrum var. martinii is slightly darker in color and branches from a lower point giving it a more spreading appearance. Cirsium neomexicanum is found at lower to middle elevations in the Gila.
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Cirsium neomexicanum, photo Russ Kleinman, Burro Mtns., Blackhawk Canyon, May 5, 2007
Cirsium neomexicanum, fresh bud opening, photo Russ Kleinman, road 211 near Gila, April 29, 2009
Cirsium neomexicanum, closeup of inflorescence, photo Russ Kleinman, Silver City, April 30, 2009
Cirsium neomexicanum, achenes in situ, photo Russ Kleinman, Silver City, Scott Park, May 20, 2009
Cirsium neomexicanum, closeup of achenes, photo Russ Kleinman, Silver City, Scott Park, May 20, 2009
Cirsium neomexicanum, swarm of pollinators, photo Russ Kleinman & Karen Blisard, Black Range, Emory Pass, July 3, 2012
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