Thistles can be invasive weeds that destroy natural habitat and they can be supportive plants in their native locations that feed birds, butterflies, moths and bees.
This is a watercolor from my nature series (see previous posts for more). I love this as a symbol of Scotland. It is a beautiful shape and colors of purple and green.
I have had to pull some thistles recently from my garden and flower beds, as they have become very invasive, crowding out other plants. Good leather garden gloves are a must (ouch) but it has been so rainy here lately, the roots slip from the ground with a strong, slow pull.
gallery of art by alice flynn 