Dune Thistle

Scientific Name: Actites megalocarpus

Description: Dune Thistle is a fleshy, perennial herb, usually forming open clusters. It has stiff, hairy leaves and a classic yellow thistle flower. Dune Thistle is a common dune plant with some suckering ability that creates a clump forming appearance. This much maligned dune plant plays an important role in dune stabilisation. It can withstand salt spray and full sun, but only reaches full height when in a sheltered position.

Plant form: Herb
Where to find: Cliff and Central Shrubland
Foliage: Leaves are stiff and stem-hugging, with prickly toothed margins
Flower: Short yellow classic thistle flowers
Flowering: August – January