Common Sow-Thistle - Sonchus oleraceus

"Sonchus oleraceus" is native to Asia and Europe. The Latin name "Sonchus" refers to the hollow stem, while "oleraceus" refers to its good taste. The common name sow thistle refers to its attractiveness to swine, and the similarity of the leaf to younger thistle plants. The common name hare's thistle refers to its purported beneficial effects on hare and rabbits.