Thistle is the name that is given to a specific group of flowering plants. These plants are characterized by the sharp, prickly outer body of the flower. Small needle-like thorns protrude from the leaves of the plant as well as the stem, embodying the entire plant. The reason for these prickles is a defense against herbivorous animals from eating them, mother nature’s way of warning off predators. Thistles are part of the daisy flowering tribe, Cynareae. Within this tribe, there are four main flowers that are most recognized and placed within this thistle category. Cynara, Carduus, Onopordum, and the Cirisium are all the names of these main flowers that we simply call, thistles, or thistle flowers. All four of these flowering plants we call thistles look a little different from each other and even serve different purposes, all with the same prickly outer body.

The thistle is so widely known around the globe because it can sprout in what seems to be in just about any environment and region. From North America, to Africa, Western Asia, Australia, and most adored by the country of Scotland. It is so loved by Scotland in fact that they even made the thistle the emblem of their country. This thistle can be seen flown on flags and other respectable objects and places. The thistle that is portrayed as an emblem of Scotland is said to be the Cirsium Vulgare flower, also known as the spear thistle, bull thistle, or the common thistle. Scotland incorporated this wild flower into its countries emblem because of a popular legend throughout the land. Legend has it, an invading country was trying to sneak up on the Scottish army while they were most vulnerable at night time. While this invading country was doing so, one of the soldiers of the country was walking barefoot through the fields leading to the encampment of the Scottish soldiers. While doing so, he accidently stepped on a type of thistle, shocking him at first and letting out a loud cry of pain that then alerted the Scottish army. Because of this alarming disturbance, the Scottish army was able to defend itself against the oncoming attack, emerging victorious. They then decided to give all credit to this beautiful, yet dangerous flower of nature. The image of the spear thistle on the flag has a crown sitting on top of the flower, expressing its royalty. Scotland even engraved the thistle on its coins used as currency.