Turquoise Thistle

This large flower grows up to 2.1 feet (64 cm) tall. Its red stems grow in bunches of 4 and are thin and straight, and the giant, turquoise leaves are very thick with irregular edges. Many leaves grow at the base of the stem, and a pair of leaves grow at the base of the flower head.

Each stem splits 3 to 7 times; a single tiny flower grows at the end of each split. The flowers are 62 cm (24.4 inches) wide, with each petal a slightly different shade of slate. The flower head is largely flat with several raised round-tipped petals. They are very delicate.

It has a delicate scent that smells like alcohol, and it has lots of pollen; it can cause severe allergic reactions. It is pollinated by the wind, but is enjoyed by several specific types of insect.