Carthamus lanatus is a winter annual forb that can grow up to 3.3 ft. (1 m) tall.
Foliage
Stem leaves are alternate, pinnate, stiff, and covered in small hairs. Base of the leaves lack petioles and weakly clasp stems. Basal leaves are like the stem leaves but larger.
Flowers
Flowers are disk shaped, yellow, 1-1.4 in. (25-35 mm) long. Receptacles are cone- shaped. Blooming occurs from July to August.
Fruit
Fruit is brown, oblong, 0.16-0.24 in. (4-6 mm) long, and notched near the base. Seeds are brownish in color, narrow, and 0.4-0.5 in. (10-13 mm) long.
Ecological Threat
Carthamus lanatus prefers disturbed areas such as roadsides, fields, and pastures. It is native to the Mediterranean and Europe.