The Scottish Thistle
The Scottish Thistle is probably one of the most well-known, and easily recognized, Scottish emblems. But although it may look familiar, you probably don't know the legends that surround it's adoption as a Scottish symbol, or why it is such an appropriate choice. But not to worry, we've got all the details you could want right here! Scottish Thistle - Legend & HistoryThe Thistle has been recognized as a Scottish symbol for centuries, and the most popular and well-known legend surrounding this choice dates back around 800 years.This particular legend describes how, in the 13th Century, Norse invaders (under orders from King Haakon IV of Norway) attempted to spring a 'surprise night-raid' on a portion of King Alexander III's army in Northern Scotland.
So that they wouldn't wake the sleeping Scots, the Vikings crept stealthily (and barefoot) across the Scottish landscape. Unfortunately for them, they weren't aware that this area was home to an abundant growth of Scottish Thistles, and when an unlucky Norseman happened to step on the vicious thorns of this native plant - well, his cries definitely gave away the raiding partys' whereabouts! The Scottish army sprang into action, and were victorious in battle. Naturally superstitious and big on symbolism, the Scots declared the Thistle to have been their savior, and this humble plant became a celebrity.
Whether or not this is the actual origin of the Thistle being seen as an Scottish emblem no-one can say for sure. But, there is evidence showing that the Scottish Thistle was a recognizable symbol of Scotland as early as the 15th century. It appears on silver coins that were issued in 1470 during the reign of King James III (1466 - 1488), and early in the 16th century it became an integral part of Scotlands' Coat of Arms. In 1503, the marriage of King James IV of Scotland to Princess Margaret Tudor of England, seems to have been the inspiration behind the poem entitled 'The Thrissil and The Rois' ('The Thistle and The Rose') penned by the Scottish poet William Dunbar. As King James was presumably the 'Thrissil', it shows how representative of Scotland this plant was considered to be. It's thought that toward the middle of the same century, Scotlands' highest chivalric order was founded by King James V (son of King James IV), it's name was 'The Order of The Thistle'. It may be that this order had much older roots, as some historians believe that James V was reviving a much more ancient order, one that perhaps dated back as far as the early 9th century. The official motto of the Order of The Thistle is 'Nemo me impune lacessit', this Latin translates into 'No one provokes me with impunity', which, given the original legend and the physical features of this plant, is almost eerily appropriate! Today the Thistle is seen on everything from sporrans and jewelry to soap and tea-towels, and it's a Scottish symbol recognized all over the world.
Scottish Thistle - About the Plant
The Scottish Thistle, also known as the 'Cotton Thistle' and whose Latin Name is Onopordum Acanthium, is what's known as a 'biennial' plant, meaning that it takes two years to complete its' life cycle. The 'basic' growth of leaves, roots and stems takes happens during the first year, the plant flowers during the second year, and then dies. Luckily these type of plants reseed easily and new plants will spring up around the original every year. In fact, anyone who's actually encountered the Thistle will tell you that it 'grows like a weed', and that's the truth! During it's second year, this Thistle can grow up to eight feet in height, and over four feet in width. And when you remember that, in spite of the soft downy flowers, the bulk of this plant is covered in extremely sharp thorns, you can imagine just how impressive (and dangerous) it can be. If you've ever stepped on a Thistle, you'll have some sympathy for the poor Vikings in the legend above. The Thistle also has a very stubborn and invasive root system, and removing the plant from a piece of ground is not an easy task. If you miss just a little piece of the root, you'll find the Thistles come back in force the following year. These physical attributes - the delicately beautiful flower heads, the viciously sharp thorns, it's stubborn and tenacious grip on the land, and it's defiant ability to flourish in spite of efforts to remove it - I think that they make this plant the perfect Scottish Emblem! They're qualities that are very similar to those of Scottish people the world over, and they embody the overwhelming strength and spirit of the country itself. I LOVE that Scottish Thistle! Scotland Culture
|
 |
 |
 |
 |