On our visits to gardens while here in Scotland we have found planted and cared for lovingly is what we know as an invasive weed- the dearly beloved Thistle.
The flower of Scotland.
And the story goes….
“On a dark autumn night of 1263, during the reign of Scottish King Alexander III, the Vikings came ashore with bare feet to keep their whereabouts unknown, landing in Scotland at Largs, lead by King Haakon IV. History is uncertain if they were intent upon a full invasion of Scotland, or where showing their power by raiding the surrounding villages. Other historians' claim that a fierce storm had driven many of their longboats ashore and they were merely retrieving them.
Many of the castles along the western coast were on guard against such raids and a possible Viking invasion. It was one such watch who heard the cries of pain of the Vikings and their leader as their bare feet walked on thistles. This alerted the Scots in time to see off the Vikings, thus saving Scotland from an invasion and possible Viking rule. The role of the thistle was then understood, and was chosen as Scotland's symbol and emblem.”
Many of the castles along the western coast were on guard against such raids and a possible Viking invasion. It was one such watch who heard the cries of pain of the Vikings and their leader as their bare feet walked on thistles. This alerted the Scots in time to see off the Vikings, thus saving Scotland from an invasion and possible Viking rule. The role of the thistle was then understood, and was chosen as Scotland's symbol and emblem.”
The first use of the thistle as the Emblem of Scotland was in silver coins in 1470.
Today the highest order of chivalry in Scotland is The Order of the Thistle which legend says was founded in 809 when King Achaius allied with the Emperor Charlemagne. The Order consists of sixteen Knights and Ladies and a few extras, including the British Royal Family. The Order's patron saint is St Andrew and the primary emblem is the thistle. The motto of the Order is "Nemo me impune lacessit" or, for the Latin challenged, "No one provokes me with impunity". Onopordum acanthium everywhere agree.
We have found that the uses for thistles are varied. Belhaven Twisted Thistle IPA and Carincorm Blessed Thistle are two beers that are available throughout the country. Wines and tea are flavored with them and that you can eat the stalks of the leaves. Pottery, lace, jewerly, almost anything you can think of has the beautiful thistle on it.
And you thought it was a weed!!
Love from Scotland,
Dawn
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