For a wild and free-spirited look, thistle is one of my all-time favorites. Available in shades of purple, blue and green, these prickly-headed, sharp-leaved plants are a bit tricky to work with but add a rugged texture like none other to your bouquet, table arrangement, or even headpiece. Thistle is actually a common term used to describe many different species with similar spiky characteristics. They are the floral emblem of Scotland and are thought to symbolize strength, protection, and healing. Certain kinds, such as Milk Thistle, are actually edible. No matter what type you find for your arrangement, there’s nothing quite like them for an ultimate display of textural beauty.

1-3) Tinge Floral, Ciara Richardson Photography  4) The Popes Photography  5-6) Pinterest  7) Caroline Tran Photography  8) My Lens of Love  9) Betty Walton Flowers  10) Snell Family Farm, Emily Delamater Photography  11) Jill Thomas Photography  12) Pinterest  13) The Shoppe Denver, Rachel Havel Photography