Prickly Sow-thistle (Sonchus asper) is a biennial or perennial flowering plant native to the United Kingdom, belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is a common and widespread species found in various habitats across the UK, including grasslands, roadsides, waste grounds, and gardens.

Prickly Sow-thistle typically thrives in nutrient-rich soils and can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It is often found in disturbed habitats and areas with regular soil disturbances.

Nutrient requirements for Prickly Sow-thistle are moderate, and it can adapt to a variety of soil types, including loamy, clay, and sandy soils.

In terms of predators, Prickly Sow-thistle faces few threats in the UK. Grazing animals such as cattle and sheep may consume it in small quantities, but it is generally avoided due to its bitter taste and spiny leaves.

The lifespan of Prickly Sow-thistle can vary depending on environmental conditions, but individual plants typically persist for several years, reproducing via seeds and occasionally by forming new plants from creeping stems (stolons).

Culturally, Prickly Sow-thistle does not hold significant references in UK culture. However, it is often considered a weed in gardens and agricultural fields due to its ability to spread rapidly and compete with cultivated plants for nutrients and resources.

An interesting fact about Prickly Sow-thistle is its edible leaves, which can be consumed when young and tender. Despite its bitter taste and prickly foliage, the leaves can be cooked or eaten raw in salads and are rich in vitamins and minerals. However, caution should be exercised when harvesting and preparing them due to their spiny texture.