Compoeite Jfainil^. 



Common Thistle. Onicus lmi,ceolatus. 



Found in pastures during July and August. 



The branching, leafy stalk is 1 or 2 feet high ; large, round, and 

 tough-fibred; covered with white wool. In color, green. 



The leaf is long, and narrow, tapering to a long point, with a large, 

 stout, and cui'ling midrib ; the margin is deeply, and often cut, and 

 armed at every point by strong, stiff, thorn-like spines. The texture is 

 tough, and the upper surface is prickly, while the under is woolly with 

 web-like hairs. The leaf clasps the stalk, and hugs it for a full inch oi" 

 more before it springs away with a free curve ; the lobes are ruffled, and 

 flaring, as they lie along the stalk. The arrangement is alternate, and 

 rather near together. The color is green, lighter at the midrib. 



The flowers ai-e small and silky ; in color a beautiful deep crimson, 

 tending toward violet. Many flowers are gathered into a large round- 

 topped head, that is held in an admirably shaped green cup, which is 

 protected by many, long, needle-pointed, white spines. One or two 

 flower-heads occur together on the summit of the stalk, or branch. Their 

 perfume is delicious. 



This might well be named the Warrior Thistle, being armed cap-a- 

 pie for conflict with cows and boys, and nearly impregnable against 

 them. It loves to sit beside a boulder in the midst of cow-path, or bye- 

 lane, and defy intercourse with any, save the bumble-bees, who sleep 

 upon the silken flower o' nights. Special observation should be given 

 to the classic vase-shape of the cup. 



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