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These evergreen perennial plants grow up to 2-3 feet in height and can live up to 40 years if given proper care.
Women are the most common recipients of thistle tattoos, and there are many different meanings behind thistle tattoos that relate to everything from religious beliefs and family heritage to simply personal choices.
The first thing most people think is that the thistle tattoo represents strength. However, it is more commonly known as a woman’s virginity symbol. In the Bible, women were not allowed to approach men who are not their husbands and in this manner, they offered a marriage back to their men who had been unfaithful. Thistles were a symbol of purity since they had no male sex organs.
A woman’s virginity was one of her most significant possessions, and her honor was substantial. They were also one of the few flowers that the devil did not eat. It was why thistles were used to decorate church altars and religious shrines. This tattoo also symbolizes women’s ability to carry on their family line and take care of the family. It is not only for the woman of the house but also for her mother, sister, children, and even her husband.
A design of the thistle flower’s roots and leaves, can symbolize the family. The flowers that bloom from this plant also represent fertility, prosperity, and abundance. They also protect her from evil spirits and tell them their wealth because they have many fruits to share with the world.
Perhaps you simply find the soft, flowering beauty attached to a harsh, prickly stem to be in a lot of ways, like life itself. Are you a delicate woman on the inside with a loving personality, but also have a strong affinity for being firefly independent?
Most popular thistle tattoo design ideas
Different types of thistle flowers to consider for inspiration: Scotch thistle: is found mainly in Scotland. It is a perennial plant with a large, spiny flower head. The plant can grow to a height of up to three feet, and its flower head can reach up to five inches in diameter. The flowers of this thistle are a bright purple color, and it has a unique aroma. The Scotch thistle is the national flower of Scotland, and it is considered a symbol of strength and courage.
Musk thistle: is found in many parts of Europe, North America, and Asia. It is an annual plant that grows to a height of two to three feet and has a thick stem that is covered in spines. The flower head of the musk thistle is a bright yellow color and it has a distinctive musky scent. This thistle is often used in traditional medicines.
Bull thistle: has a tall, spiny stem and a large flower head that can reach up to six inches in diameter. The flower head is a deep red color, and it has a strong, earthy scent. The bull thistle is often used in traditional medicine and is known for its ability to reduce inflammation.
Plumeless thistle: has a vibrant bright purple head. The leaves of the plant are covered in small spines, and the flower head has a sweet scent. Plumeless thistle is often used as an ornamental plant and is known for its ability to attract butterflies.
Milk thistle: features a pale pink colored head. Pokey spines cover the stem while the flower head has a distinct milk-like scent.
Thistle tattoo meanings and symbolism:
What do Thistle flower designs mean and symbolize?: Thistle flowers have been a popular motif in art, architecture, and literature for centuries, representing loyalty, honor, and strength. The thistle has a long and rich history. Its origins can be traced back to the ancient Greeks and Romans, who believed that a thistle could ward off evil. The flower’s sharp spines were also thought to protect against enemies and bring good luck. In the Middle Ages, it was a symbol of royalty, often seen in the crests of noble families. During the Renaissance, thistles were used as ornamental motifs on furniture and architecture, signifying wealth and power.
Soft petals and subtle color palette have been celebrated in painting, poetry, and song. Their intricate form and captivating scent have been praised by many women.
Thistle tattoo designs can be symbolic of resilience, strength, and protection. Ultimately they are an exquisite reminder of the beauty of life in its most fragile and delicate moments. As a symbol of hope and a reminder of the power of perseverance, the spiky thistle flower is steeped in grace and elegance.
With timeless beauty, Thistles speak to the power of determination, patience, and courage in the face of any challenge. A symbol of hope and renewal, the thistle is a reminder of the courage and strength that exist within us all, no matter the circumstance.
In Celtic culture, it was believed to be the guardian of the home, a symbol of protection against harm and a reminder of the power of resilience and perseverance. In Scotland, it is a national symbol, standing for strength, courage, and pride.
The thistle is a beautiful symbol of fortitude and a sign of protection from adversity. Its elegant form speaks to its lofty meaning, representing the power of the human spirit to survive, to rise above any challenge, and to triumph against all odds. The thistle has always been a powerful and meaningful symbol thanks to its connect with nature.
