Vulgar Beauty

The Bull Thistle (Cirsium vulgare) is a common invasive species that has been in bloom recently.

Presented for your delectation is a macro study of this "vulgar" weed.

The spiny base of the flowering head is covered with some sort of fuzz.  The leaves of the plant are covered with fine hairs, and these apparently extend to the spiny flower head.

The flowering part is a vibrant purple color.  According to Montana Plantlife.org, it's belongs to the Aster family.  Read the article, and you'll learn that the plant is "edible."

Putting it all together.  I'd rather see one than eat one.   ;-)