Milk Thistle

This architectural plant has multiple benefits besides being down right beautiful. If you can bring yourself to sacrifice one of the flowers for a boutonniere you will be noticed, guaranteed. Might not get many hugs. Also, if planted close together it will still be productive of flowers and seeds but will also deter cats from digging and/or vulturing around your bird feeders. Works in nicely with a moon garden if it can receive evening light from an outdoor fixture. The white veins and waxy finish on the leaves are stunning when they reflect from those little solar powered border lamps. A great plant but be sure to allow it good drainage or plant in large containers if you have soggy ground.

I love the colourful pattern on the leaves. I haven't had any problems with being invasive because I harvest the seeds.

They re-seed so fast can't keep up. Have to pull them up but it is quite hard long root.

I was excited to see the tiger-patterned green and white leaves spreading out after germination. Now, they have turned into small bushes 2-3' high, and the purple flowers are gorgeous, extending from thin and long stems topped by spiky balls. I have yet to make a tonic with the seeds, but I will look up the method and try it. The seeds are attached to puffs like a dandelion, so I am assuming these will reseed well. Of course, the leaves are prickly, so don't touch!

My seedlings look like they're strong and coming on well. I have had a few eaten by snails, so I will have to replant, but germination rates are high, and I have high expectations for this plant.