Bees on Thistles.
The following images feature bees burying themselves in the heady pollen embedded in the flower of a thistle plant. Thistles grow easily in many conditions, surviving where other plants wouldn't.
They are characterized by their vibrant purple flower, ferociously sharp thorns and their ability to thrive in the harshest of conditions. The thistle plant Onopordum Acanthium, is part of the sunflower family and there are over 200 different types available. It is also an ancient Celtic symbol of nobility of character as well of birth.
Bees are not the only creatures that can partake of this prickly but attractive plant as they are edible to humans as well. It was once known as, the dish of the poor and apparently tastes a bit like celery.
Known as Blessed or Holy Thistle, it was reported to cure the plague. Every part of the plant is used and it acts as a tonic, stimulant, diaphoretic and an emetic. Other uses are to improve circulation and purification of the blood and strengthens brain function and memory.
The Scottish Thistle holds the honour of being the oldest, recorded national emblem and as such, is a very recognized symbol of Scotland. It is a biennial plant which takes two years to complete its cycle and is also known as the Cotton Thistle.
THANK YOU FOR VIEWING. HAVE A GREAT DAY.