Cirsium parryi, July 14, 2021
Common & scientific name
Parry’s thistle, Cirsium parryi
Family
Sunflower, Asteraceae
Location
Roadside, 9,500’
Fun, weird, helpful, or little known fact
As I’ve said before, not all thistles are “bad”—i.e., non-native invasives—and indeed with a little time and attention paid can take on a certain charm (in addition to being pollinator favorites). This thistle is uncommon on the Pass, mostly at mid-elevation (montane), and has distinctly yellow flowers.