Sow-thistle (Sonchus), a genus of plants of the natural order Compositæ, sub-order Cichoraceæ. The Common Sow-thistle (S. oleraceus) abounds in Britain and in most parts of Europe as a weed in gardens and cultivated fields. It is an annual plant, delighting in rich soils, grows to the height of 2 or 3 feet, with somewhat branching stem, and small yellow flowers in corymbs. The tender tops and leaves are much used in the north of Europe as greens. It is a favourite food with hares and rabbits, is eaten by swine, sheep, and goats, but
