The Soil Hugger's Journey - Pick a Plant Day - St Mary's Thistle

Not quite another light and fluffy blog today… this one grew arms, legs and an attitude.  I surprised myself as to how passionate I felt about this discussion, but hopefully I’ve delivered a moderately balanced view. Endings can’t always happy – BUT perhaps this is not the end….

Introducing Exhibit C: St Mary’s Thistle (Silybum marianum)

This stunning looking - check out the patterning and edges on this baby! - and stunningly controversial St Mary’s Thistle qualifies for the Crazy Plant Section of this blog on the basis of (A) its beauty, (B) its ease of growth in our climate (a double edged sword - enter the controversy!) and (C) its many uses and (debated) properties.

Love it or hate it - understanding how plus why or why not to introduce/grow/use any plant responsibly is essential for any gardener.