Thistles are amazing flowers.
Closely related to the commercially grown globe artichoke, these prolific wildflowers are a valuable pollinator plant loved by bees, butterflies and birds. Thistles are also related to popular daisies. Both are members of the Asteraceae family, also known as the daisy, sunflower or composite family.
Many species of thistle have been used for healing and medicinal remedies since the Greek empire. In Christianity, the thistle is often associated with the suffering of Christ. The National Institutes of Health recognize extensive medical uses for thistle — even for the most severe illnesses.
Hardy and resilient to predators, folk legends describe the thistle as a mirror of our spirit’s ability to overcome adversity and thrive. Celtic cultures believe the thistle, called cluarán or feochadán, symbolizes devotion, bravery, determination and strength. The thistle is also the national symbol of Scotland and has been since the 13th century.
