Dorothea Dix

Your minds may now be likened to a garden, which will, if neglected, yield only weeds and thistles; but, if cultivated, will produce the most beautiful flowers, and the most delicious fruits.

American Activist

Floral emblems have been often adopted. The houses of York and Lancaster had their roses, the Bourbons of France, the fleur-de-lis, Scotland her thistle, and Ireland her shamrock.

Abraham Lincoln

I want it said of me by those who knew me best, that I always plucked a thistle and planted a flower where I thought a flower would grow.

American President

Richard Burton

A man that hoards up riches and enjoys them not, is like an ass that carries gold and eats thistles.

Welsh Actor

Used to describe plants with sharp points that can cause pain if touched.

Prickle Warning

Often used to signify the typical color of thistle flowers, linking to natural beauty.

Purple Associations

Commonly mentioned in discussions about gardening, nature, and botany.

Botanical Context

Recognized as a national symbol of Scotland in various emblems and crests.

Scottish Emblem

Conveys the historical and cultural importance tied to Scotland's identity.

Historical Significance

Used in the context of heraldry, often within coats of arms and official symbols.

Heraldic Reference

 seeds is protected by a very sharp thorn and you look at it you say oh it's this nice lacy thing that rolls along and then you touch it and your hand is filled with spikes it came from Russia that's why it's called Russian thistle

The Weed That Won the...

 instead it lives its life as a restless nomad that's always on the move tracking the best places at the right moments Painted Lady caterpillars have simple tastes thistles nettles and mallas common

Thistle