You've probably seen it emblazoned upon many items relating to Scotland but what is the Scottish thistle all about and why did this particular plant come to be Scotland's national symbol?
Taxonomy
The thistle in question is the prickly purple variety known as Scots Thistle. But there is confusion about the exact classification because several different varieties of prickly, purple-headed thistles grow in Scotland. One strong candidate is the one sometimes known as Cotton Thistle with the Latin name Onopordum Acanthium. To say that this plant is vigorous would be an understatement. It has no problem coping with the often harsh and changeable Scottish weather and grows well in 'disturbed sites' where the soil conditions can be quite poor. Let's be frank - it's a weed, but at least a weed with an attractive, brightly coloured bloom.
History and Legend
The historical origins of the symbol are murky. There is a legend relating to the thistle acting as an alarm when it spiked the foot of one of a band of invading Vikings. The pained shriek of the unfortunate Viking roused the Scots warriors to battle and they defeated the invaders. There is no way to verify such a tale but it certainly appeals to Scottish sensibilities to imagine that the humble (but feisty) thistle thwarted the might of a Viking horde.
It is certain, however, that the Scottish Thistle has been an important emblem for more than 500 years. During the reign of James III it was used on silver coins, issued around 1470. In the early 16th century it was incorporated into the Royal Arms of Scotland and, although the Royal Arms have changed much since the Acts of Union in 1707, the humble thistle can still be seen be seen sprouting around the hooves and claws of the lion and unicorn on the present-day Arms.
The thistle symbol was also important in chivalry. The Order of the Thistle founded (at least in its current form) in 1687 by King James VII of Scotland, used the symbol on the insignia and regalia of their 'Knights of the Order of the Thistle'. Their motto 'no-one provokes me with impunity' fits nicely, as it was surely designed to, with the perception of the humble but prickly Scots thistle.
Jewellery
It seems that the Scottish thistle is a symbol we can all identify with. Far removed from the grandiose emblems of Kings and Queens and, instead, appealing to the romanticism and patriotism of the common man or woman, it holds a special place in the hearts of Scots. Perhaps for this reason it has endured as a much-loved symbol on jewelry and other craftwares.
The Scots thistle has been rendered in precious metals such as gold and silver but also in more modest ones such as wood or pewter. You can see it on necklaces, earrings, wedding rings, cufflinks, quaichs and a host of other personal gift items.
In Summary
It may seem odd to have a prickly weed as the symbol of a nation. But perhaps it is proper that the Scottish thistle should come to represent a people known for their attributes of toughness, endurance, humility, romanticism and maybe just a little spiky defensiveness.
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