Thistle seed goes by many names, but Nyjer is one of the most common. This tiny, black seed originally gets its name from the Nyjer plant, from which it is harvested. The Nyjer plant, which is also referred to as the “Niger seed plant”, is scientifically known as Guizotia abyssinica. Despite its misleading name, the Nyjer plant is not actually related to the thistle plant. So why is its seed commonly referred to as thistle seed?
The History and Origins of Nyjer Seed
The Nyjer plant originated in Ethiopia and was brought to Asia and Europe in the 18th century. The small, black seeds were first harvested as an affordable alternative to rapeseed and linseed oil. However, Nyjer seed was found to have a bitter taste caused by a chemical called guizotin. This made it unpalatable for human consumption. Around this time, people discovered that small birds seemed to love eating the tiny, nutrient-rich seeds. Thus began the trend of referring to Nyjer seed as “thistle seed” and marketing it as bird food. But despite this nickname, Nyjer seed and thistle seed come from completely different plants.
Why the Confusion Between Nyjer and Thistle Seeds?
There are a few reasons why Nyjer seed is mistakenly associated with thistle plants:
- Appearance – Nyjer seeds are small and black, similar to the seeds produced by some thistle species like American Goldfinch and Nyjer thistle.
- Marketing – Bird seed companies labeled Nyjer seed bags as “thistle seed” to sell more product. This created an inaccurate link between Nyjer and thistle in the public mindset.
- Common names – In English, Nyjer is referred to as “Niger thistle” or “Nyjer thistle.” The genus name Guizotia sounds similar to “thistle” as well. These names reinforce the false notion that Nyjer is a type of thistle.
While Nyjer seed and some thistle seeds look nearly identical, they come from completely different plant genera. This common mix-up persists mainly for historical commercial reasons, not biological ones.
The Botanical Differences Between Nyjer and Thistle
Although they are routinely confused, Nyjer and thistle are taxonomically distinct:
Nyjer Seed
- Scientific name – Guizotia abyssinica
- Family – Asteraceae
- Genus – Guizotia
- Origin – Ethiopian highlands
- Description – Annual flowering plant; small black seeds
- Use – Bird seed
Thistle Seed
- Scientific name – Carduus, Cirsium, Onopordum genera
- Family – Asteraceae
- Genera – Carduus, Cirsium, Onopordum (among others)
- Origin – Europe, Asia, North Africa
- Description – Herbaceous flowering plants, biennial/perennial; seed heads with small black seeds
- Use – Some species edible for humans; bird seed
The main differences that set Nyjer and thistle apart are their distinct plant genera, geographic origins, growth habits, and uses. They belong to the same family (Asteraceae) but are completely separate botanically.
Why Nyjer Seed is an Excellent Bird Food
Although not actually a thistle, Nyjer seed has properties that make it highly desirable for birds:
- High fat content – Over 40% of Nyjer seed is oil. This provides birds with more energy.
- Small size – Nyjer seeds are tiny, making them easy for small birds to eat.
- Thin shells – Their shells are thin enough for birds to easily crack open.
- Mild taste – Nyjer has a mild, nutty flavor that birds love.
- High protein – The seeds contain 12-18% protein, vital for growth.
- Vitamin rich – Nyjer seeds provide amino acids, calcium and vitamin E.
While not related to thistle botanically, Nyjer seed shares traits like small size and rich nutrients that make thistle seed desirable to birds too. This explains why the two continue to be so closely linked in bird food contexts.
Popular Birds That Love Nyjer Seed
Due to its tiny size and energy density, Nyjer seed attracts smaller bird species that have high metabolisms. Some birds that relish these nutritious black seeds include:
- Goldfinches
- Pine siskins
- Chickadees
- Redpolls
- Crossbills
- Purple finches
- House finches
- Woodpeckers
- Nuthatches
- Titmice
Larger birds like cardinals, blue jays, doves, grackles, and blackbirds will also eat Nyjer seed, though in smaller amounts. Offering Nyjer seed is a sure way to attract a diversity of small, lively birds to your backyard feeder.
Key Takeaways
Here are the key facts to remember about thistle seed versus Nyjer seed:
- Nyjer seed comes from the Guizotia abyssinica plant, not thistle plants.
- It was wrongly marketed as “thistle seed,” creating an inaccurate association.
- Botanically, thistle and Nyjer plants are completely unrelated.
- Nyjer is excellent for birds due to its small size, thin shell, mild flavor, nutrients, and fat content.
- Goldfinches, siskins, chickadees, and other small birds readily eat Nyjer seed.
While thistle and Nyjer seeds look very similar, they come from different plant families. But both make outstanding bird food. Nyjer seed offers a special treat that will attract a lively flock to your feeder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nyjer seed toxic?
No, Nyjer seed is not toxic to birds or humans when eaten in normal quantities. Very high intake may potentially cause digestive upset in some birds.
Is Nyjer seed invasive?
Nyjer plants can be invasive in certain warm climates like Australia. But the seeds themselves are not invasive. They can be consumed by birds safely.
Can you plant Nyjer seed?
Nyjer seed could potentially be planted to grow more Niger seed plants. However, they primarily grow well in very warm climates and may not thrive if planted in other regions.
Is Nyjer seed sprouted?
Most Nyjer seed sold for birds is not sprouted. Sprouted Nyjer seed would offer even more nutrition, but would be difficult to source for typical bird feed.
Is Nyjer seed expensive?
Relative to other bird seeds, Nyjer tends to be more expensive per pound due to import costs and small harvest size. But many birds prefer Nyjer over other seeds, making it worth the price.
Seed Type | Price (USD) Per Pound |
---|---|
Black oil sunflower | $0.70 |
Nyjer | $1.75 |
Safflower | $2.00 |
Peanuts | $3.00 |
This table shows the relative prices per pound in the United States of various bird seeds. Nyjer is mid-range, but lower cost than other premium seeds like peanuts.
Conclusion
Nyjer seed, sometimes erroneously called thistle seed, is a unique variety treasured by backyard bird enthusiasts. Its origins from Ethiopia, small size, mild taste and nutritious content make it attractive to small seed-eating birds. While frequently confused with thistle due to appearance and marketing, Nyjer comes from an entirely different plant. Remembering the key differences between these two types of seed can help birders buy and use the right product to bring in hungry flocks.