the Bull Thistles still maintain a presence. Even after an entire winter these stand over five feet tall and continue to catch the eye while the stalks of this summer’s plants are still in their infancy. (That’s one of my favorite fishin’ streams in the background.)
(501)
Montana Outdoors 
To me, this is the bloom! I especially like the first.
LikeLike
Comment by burstmode — June 9, 2010 @ 5:52 am
They are pretty both times, aren’t they! These were very showy because of their size: they were huge!
LikeLike
Comment by montucky — June 9, 2010 @ 10:05 pm
these are interesting shots too. I love how you document all the different aspects of your world.
LikeLike
Comment by silken — June 9, 2010 @ 7:39 am
Thanks Silken. THe various phases of the plants is fascinating to me, and loaded with surprises.
LikeLike
Comment by montucky — June 9, 2010 @ 10:07 pm
Pretty, so is that stream in the background!!
Did you know that people used to grow teasel to card wool?
LikeLike
Comment by sandy — June 9, 2010 @ 3:25 pm
I can see why they did. I’m not sure, but I think these are even larger than teasel and would work for the same purpose.
LikeLike
Comment by montucky — June 9, 2010 @ 10:17 pm
Isn’t this teasel (Dipsacus fullonum)? http://www.ppws.vt.edu/scott/weed_id/diwsi.htm
Either way, the photos are great!
LikeLike
Comment by kateri — June 10, 2010 @ 10:39 am
They sure look alike at this stage, but this one is Bull Thistle, Cirsium vulgare.
LikeLike
Comment by montucky — June 10, 2010 @ 9:40 pm
Unique – and so beautiful in their own way…
LikeLike
Comment by Stacey Dawn — June 10, 2010 @ 3:21 pm
They are good for dried flower arrangements. Next trip I must collect a few.
LikeLike
Comment by montucky — June 10, 2010 @ 9:42 pm
Cool-looking!
LikeLike
Comment by Candace — June 10, 2010 @ 7:53 pm
I think so! The plant has quite a design because the blossoms are very pretty too.
LikeLike
Comment by montucky — June 10, 2010 @ 9:44 pm