Normally, I wouldn't care too much for a thistle; their spiny stems are a menace while hiking and their prickles leave behind quite a nasty itch. However, as I was making my way through the vibrant spring wildflower patches of Hite Cove, I noticed a proliferation of the budding common thistles. Their beautiful pink inflorescence was quite a contrast against the drab dry-green surroundings.
I observed many such blooms that day, some filled with jeweled insects and bumbling beetles trying to get in on the pollen action, while others were withering in their last days. I found this particular thistle still retaining all its pink pollen-filled stalks, providing a burst of color for this macro image
Hite Cove
CA USA