131803 PERENNIAL SOW-THISTLE Sonchus arvensis (Asteraceae) Height to 2m. Impressive perennial that grow in damp, grassy places and on disturbed ground. Broken stems exude a milky sap. FLOWERS are borne in heads, 4-5cm across, with yellow florets; heads are carried in branched, umbel-like clusters (Jul-Sep). FRUITS are ribbed and flattened with feathery pappus hairs forming a ‘clock’. LEAVES are narrow, shiny, dark green above and greyish below, with pinnate lobes and soft marginal spines; clasping, rounded auricles at base. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
