The Los Angeles Times
5/31/06

The yellow star thistle is a beautiful plant. So why do residents and visitors in the Santa Monica Mountains dislike it so much?
Because it is a nuisance, and worse. It invades and threatens native plants. Horses can develop nerve damage if they eat it over a long period of time. It keeps animals from feeding on the native grasses. And its needle-sharp spines can jab and injure people and animals.

The pretty but troublesome plant can grow to be 5 feet tall. Its stems are rigid with spiny yellow flower heads. It was introduced to our region from southern Europe.

The plant is illustrated here by Marilyn, 12.

The yellow star thistle can be found on roadsides, trails and in cleared areas. Its seeds can be carried over long distances by clinging to the undersides of vehicles. Animals and hikers transport them over shorter distances because the plant's bristles stick to fur or hair, clothing and shoes.

With careful monitoring and prevention, invasions by this plant can be stopped or slowed down. Mowing, hand-pulling or weed-whacking works well. More drastic measures include prescribed burns and herbicides.

When walking along trails or roadsides it is important to be on the lookout for yellow star thistle. Its spines can go through even thick pants and shoes. Be sure to keep your animal friends away from it too!

This Learning Link was written by Carol Felixson, director of education and community outreach for UCLA's Stunt Ranch Reserve and Mathias Botanical Garden. Previous stories can be seen at nrs.ucop.edu/reserves/stunt/newsforkids.html.

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Carol Felixson
Director of Education/Community Outreach
UCLA Stunt Ranch Reserve & Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden
Protected natural sites that support university level teaching, research, and public service
310 206-3887, nrs.ucop.edu/reserves/stunt.html , www.botgard.ucla.edu
Science/Art Lessons for Kids - nrs.ucop.edu/reserves/stunt/newsforkids.html
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