Musk thistle, a native of Eurasia, was introduced to the United States as an ornamental plant. The first reported planting was in 1852. By the late 1800's, musk thistle was common along the east coast. It is now found in 45 states.

Musk thistle can be found in open areas such as pastures, meadows, prairies, and along roadsides. It can grow under a wide range of conditions and elevations up to 8000 feet.

Musk thistle is a noxious weed that spreads most rapidly in disturbed areas. It has become especially common in the Great Plains, where it is a pest of grazing lands. It has been a common weed in Nebraska since the 1950's.