Common Thistle (Cirsium vulgare) in Bloom - Wildflower Identification Guide #1850432 (License: Personal Use)

This image captures a healthy specimen of *Cirsium vulgare*, commonly known as the spear thistle or bull thistle, in full bloom. The plant displays multiple lavender-pink composite flower heads atop a robust, ribbed stem covered in spines, with deeply lobed, prickly leaves arranged alternately. It thrives in disturbed soils and open habitats, often seen in roadside verges, pastures, and wastelands across temperate regions.

Used in botanical identification guides, ecological surveys, and educational resources about invasive or native wildflowers; matches user intent for plant ID, gardening warnings, or habitat documentation.