Thistle do nicely! These purple plants will add dramatic beauty to any garden. By MONTY DON FOR MAILONLINE Updated: 17:30 EDT, 26 June 2009 ...

England has a rose, Wales a daffodil, Ireland a shamrock and Scotland the purple, prickly but proud thistle which has been our national emblem for centuries, here’s why.

Her new plant shop, Blue Thistle, opened in Uptown Ankeny in November. There she offers “a plant for everyone whether you’re a novice or an experienced plant person,” she said.

5. Sea Holly Picos Amethyst This striking plant is native to the Mediterranean and has stunning blue-purple thistle flowers that are best planted in sunny borders.

Every August this thistle is one of the only plants to flower in most of Spain’s arid Mediterranean habitats, giving it a virtual monopoly on the local bees and other pollinators.

At her wedding to Jack Brooksbank on Oct. 11 at Windsor Castle's St. George's Chapel, the royal carried a crisp white bouquet with blue thistle, which contrasted the autumnal flowers that ...