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Project Noah Nature School
Onopordum illyricum
Illyrian cottonthistle with visitors (Pieris brassicae). Spiny-winged stems about 150 cm. with large globular to ovoid, purple flower heads. Leaves lobed, usually densely grey felted, spiny.
Rocky meadow on the edge of woodland.
The etymology of the genus name is really hilarious. It is a compound word made of Greek "όνος" meaning "donkey" and "πορδή"meaning "fart", and so " a donkey's fart" a reference to the alleged effect of these thistles on donkeys when consumed.
Spotted on Jul 3, 2016
Submitted on Jul 18, 2016
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