Monday, August 11, 2008

Thistle

 
Bob T and I took so many pictures of this thistle out in Point Reyes last Tuesday, we almost wore it out. Now, you'd think it would be super easy to positively identify this plant. But no such luck! Lotsa very close look-alikes, but no cigar!
 
My unsuccessful search did, however, yield some fascinating information. Who'd a thought!

Cardonnacum, derived from carduus, is the Latin for a place with thistles. This is believed to be the origin of name of the Burgundy village of Chardonnay, Saone-et-Loire, which in turn is thought to be the home of the famous Chardonnay grape variety. Which deserves another 'who'd a thought'.

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