www.ukbutterflies.co.uk

I have seen these all over the place, but never managed to ID it. Low growing, hairy spiky leaves like a thistle, but I have never seen one flower before (I know they probably do) and can be found on waste/disturbed ground and lawns etc... help would be appreciated

Is the soil chalky? Could be dwarf thistle.

Susie wrote:Is the soil chalky? Could be dwarf thistle.

Thanks, it does resemble that but not sure, its not on the list as being present in Northern Ireland but unless I missed it, have yet to find it on the list but sure its probably there. The soil was clay soil as I saw it at an old clay pit which was turned into a wetland reserve, also have these on the lawn in my garden which is more acid clay. If I can't figure it out, might just have to dig one out of my lawn, plant it in a pot and see when it flowers.

Looks like a Spear Thistle to me. It is biennial,and the one in the picture is a year old,which will flower,set seed and die,by the end of August. Good caterpillar foodplant for Painted ladies,and Goldfinches love the seeds.
Cheers all, Mark.

Thanks, I checked it, that is it. Just never knew what it looked like when it is young, seen so many fully grown in flower. In 2009 I found lots when painted lady cats