Native thistles are amazing plants for pollinators and birds! They have the sweetest highest quality nectar of almost any summer blooming plant and are preferred by most bees and butterflies. Makes amazing Honey! The seed-fluff in late summer is used by Goldfinches as both a food source and as nesting material. The plant is biennial and must self-sow in order to persist. Preference is for wet, swampy ground often somewhat lime-rich and full sun. Grows 4-6 foot tall and has dark purple flowers. Quite prickly and can seed around a bit but will not persist without some regular disturbance. Zone 2-7. PA ecotype. // Seed packet, about 50 seeds. Germination requirements: 60 days cold, moist stratification.