Prepared by Jennifer L. D’Appollonio, Assistant Scientist, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469. Updated February 2018. Scientific name: Sonchus asper (L.) Hill Common name(s): spiny sowthistle, spiny-leaved sowthistle, prickly sow thistle, sharp-fringed sow thistle Link(s): USDA PLANTS Profile, Go Botany Images: (to see enlargements [PC]: click on image, then right click and choose “view image”)