November Flower of the Month: Thistle
Family: Asteraceae
Our November Flower of the Month is Thistle! You can often see them used in floral arrangements where they add a touch of uniqueness and texture to any design. Although they are popular in floral design, they do have a bad reputation as unpleasant weeds. Despite that, thistles have a rich history and distinct characteristics that make them captivating. Keep reading to learn more about this unique prickly flower.
Origin:
Native to: Eurasia, Africa, and the Mediterranean region.
In The Wild: Because of their adaptability, thistles can be found just about anywhere, but they typically grow on open disturbed soil or heavily grazed land.
In A Vase:
To ensure freshness, it is best to change the water regularly and trim the stems.
Growing in your Garden:
Thistles are very easy to grow. All they really need is a lot of sunlight. Be careful when growing them in your garden as they can easily take over other plants. It would be best to keep these blooms separated from other plants. It’s also important to check your local regulations, since some species may be considered invasive in certain areas.
Symbolism/Fun Facts:
The Thistle is a national symbol of Scotland symbolizing strength, resilience, and defiance.
Thistles contain nectar that is highly favored by bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
They are a valuable source of food for wildlife and the seeds are often used in bird feeders.
In traditional medicine, thistle has been used to treat various ailments, including liver disorders, digestive issues, and skin conditions.
The young tender leaves of certain species can be cooked or added to salads, providing a unique and slightly bitter flavor. However, our fresh cut thistle stems are not edible.
Thistle has been used as a natural dye for fabric and fibers.
They have inspired many works of art including Vincent van Gogh and Albrecht Dürer
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