The Thistle reference article from the English Wikipedia on 24-Jul-2004 (provided by Fixed Reference: snapshots of Wikipedia from wikipedia.org)

Thistle

Thistle
Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Plantae Division: Magnoliophyta Class: Magnoliopsida Order: Asterales Family: Asteraceae Genus: Cirsium

Thistles are perennial flowering plants of the genus Cirsium. They are known for their effusive flowered heads (usually purple, rose, yellow, or white) and prickly stems and leaves, with a characteristic focal point at the base of the flower which is particularly spiny. Most species are considered weeds, but some are cultivated in gardens for their aesthetic value. Some species: Cirsium lanceolatum, Cirsium palustre, Cirsium oleraceum.

Thistle is also a common name for several other genera within Asteraceae, or species within them:

• Arctium – Burdock
• Carduus – Plumeless thistle
• Carlina – Carline thistle
• Cynara – Artichokes
• Echinops – Globethistle
• Onopordum – Cottonthistle
• Silybum – Milk thistle

The thistle is the national flower of Scotland, and features in many Scottish symbols and logos.

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