The Significance of Thistle, Scotland’s National Flower

Thistle is Scotland’s national flower, which is spottable in every part of the country. The flower has been of great significance in Scotland for a long time. Today, we know flowers as a sign of love, but thistle saved thousands of Scottish lives in the 13th century. It did not work as a remedy but helped the Scots kill their enemies. How is it possible? Don’t worry; this will be discussed in our blog post. Not only this, but we will also talk about its history as a national symbol and its role in different Scottish events.

Thistle and Its Significance in Scotland

Thistle is a flowering plant that is highly available in Scotland. The primary color of this flower is purple and pink, with sharp prickles on it and sometimes on stems as well. A majority consider it to be available in just one type. But in reality, they are available in over 200 varieties worldwide. Likewise, in Scotland, they are available in many types. However, Scots use Cirsium vulgare as a thistle type as their national emblem.

Regarding the significance of thistles in Scotland, many things in Scotland help us to realize how valuable they are among Scots. The flower is a companion of every Scot, from special days to his journey. Being a Scot, one can find thistle in every aspect of his life. One hears Robert Burns talking about flowers in his poetry. The coin he spends has a thistle on it. The availability of thistles in every domain of Scottish lives reveals how important they are.

Historical Origins of the Thistle in Scotland

Scots have been using thistle as their defensive weapon for a long time. The primary purpose then was to protect them against thieves and looters. They would never have thought thistles would help them save their lives against Norse invaders.

The historical origin of Thistle’s significance began in the Battle of Largs in 1263. A group of Norse invaders, including Norwegian Vikings, planned to surprise Scots at midnight when they may be sleeping. They became barefooted to attack the Scots so they may not get up because of shoe noise. On the other hand, Scots were quite wise and used to scatter the thorny thistles on the ground as a routine.

Surprisingly, one of the Norse placed his foot on thistle and yelped because of pain. The Scots heard this voice, got up, took their weapons and started fighting the rebels. As a result, the Norse army was beaten severely and had no option other than retreating and returning. After this event, the Scots declared the thistle a Scottish national flower and a sign of protection and vigilance.

Thistle as Scotland’s National Emblem

Thistle became the national flower of Scotland in the 13th century after the Battle of Largs. However, the flower did not become part of any national entity until 1470. In 1474, a Scottish king, James III, ordered the engraving of Thistle on coins as their national identity. Later on, the British did the same.

Another event proving the importance of the Thistle as a Scottish symbol occurred in 1687 when King James VII founded the Order of the Thistle. The title is known to be the most ancient one that the Scottish government can bestow on a single individual for his extraordinary achievements. 

Thistle’s Role in Scottish Festivals and Events

Thistle, being a historical part of Scots, is equally popular in Scottish festivals and events. It is deeply connected with all events, whether St. Andrew Day or a wedding event. The following passages tell you about the thistle’s role in different events.

Andrew’s Day and Thistle

St. Andrew’s Day takes place on 30th November, admiring the patron saint of Scotland.  What’s the connection of thistle with this day? It is an often-made query. Locations throughout Scotland are decorated with colourful arrangements of thistles. The Scottish national symbol acts as a visual depiction of Scotland’s long-lasting essence and cultural inheritance. The flowers are seen in beautifully crafted thistle jewellery and hand-painted thistle designs on pottery, representing Scotland’s rich history and culture.

Highland Games and Thistle Trophies

Everyone today knows Highland games because of their international fame and worldwide events. Some trophies that participants won are named after this national symbol of Scots. The flower is a central symbol in the annual Highland Games, celebrating Scottish culture and heritage. It features in many ways at the Highland Games, including decorations and competitions. 

Thistle in Wedding Customs

Wedding traditions in Scotland are exceptional. Most customs are traditional and have been taking place for centuries, while some began with time. Some common traditions are wearing traditional Kilt Outfits, handfasting, quaich dram, etc.

Likewise, thistle flowers are essential to Scottish weddings, from decorating the marriage halls to Churches. Some traditions also involve thistles, such as a bride usually having a bouquet, including a thistle. At the same time, a thistle flower is placed in the groom’s bobbin to admire the heritage.

Conclusion

Thistle is the national flower of Scotland. They traditionally have been using this flower in different events and festivals. The grounds behind making Thistle the national emblem are interesting. The story begins in the Battle of Largs in the 13th century when a soldier from the Norse army placed his bare foot on the thistle while silently attacking Scots. After some time, King James III ordered the imprint of this flower on coins, and James VII passed an Order of the Thistle to admire the bravest soldiers. The flower is an essential part of Scottish wedding customs, national events, and many other festivals.