[4] Pitcher's thistle is a plant of modest appearance through much of its lifespan; it concentrates most of its biomass in a massive taproot that can be 6 feet (2 m) in length.

At the top of the blooming shoot is a spectacular effusive flower head, ranging in color from creamy white to very light pink, and guarded by spines.

In an unknown summer at some point in the 1820s, Dr. Pitcher was granted leave to go on an adventure camping trip west of the fort on a sandy shoreline of Lake Superior.

In addition, Pitcher's thistle continues to grow and flower in some smaller state parks and private tracts along these lake shores.

In addition, the high economic value of Great lakes shoreline for real estate development continues to threaten the Pitcher's thistle.