star thistle
/ˈstɑrˌθɪsəl/
noun
- A prickly plant with purple or pink flowers that grows in dry areas and is often considered a weed.
- Hikers should watch out for star-thistle along the trail because its spines are sharp.
- Star-thistle can take over pastures if it is not controlled early.
- The farmer spent the afternoon pulling star-thistle from his field.