SOW-THISTLE, or Sonchus, L. a genus of plants forming 13 species, four of which are indigenous: the principal are the following:
1. The oleraceus, or Common Sow-thistle, grows on cultivated ground, dunghills, and in hedges; its yellow flowers appear from June till August.—The leaves of this troublesome weed are the favourite food of hares and rabbits; they are likewise dressed and eaten among other culinary herbs. The roots have occasionally been converted into bread.—Sheep, goats, and swine, devour this vegetable, but it is not relished by horses.
2. The arvensis, Corn or Tree Sow-Thistle, is perennial, thrives in clayey corn-fields, and on ditch-banks, where it blows in August.—It is remarkable, that the flowers of this plant follow, in a regular manner, the course of the sun.—Cows and goats eat this species, of which horses are exccedingly fond.— Bechstein remarks, that the young shoots of the Corn Sow-thistle, when cut out in the spring, and mixed with bran, afford an excellent food for cattle and swine.
3. The palustris, or Marsh Sow-Thistle, grows in watery places, and on the banks of rivers, where it attains the height of from six to ten feet; flowering in July and August.—While young, this plant furnishes nourishing food for cattle: hence it deserves to be cultivated in swampy meadows.—Its flowers, like those of all the thistles, are visited by bees.