A striking weed...

[SARtech]

Trying very hard to be a beautiful flower. It's called a Musk Thistle. It's really tall and the ball-type flower burst was like 4" across!
The last one is kinda sucky, but I wanted you to see what it turns into.

[mjs1973]

I love these thistles, but never knew the exact name. I think they are beautiful and very sharp! I took a few shots of one last year and I was really happy with the way they turned out. I have a coupe of them posted in my gallery.

[Frog]

I've noticed that thistles have rather attractive flowers but never got a shot of one.
These are quite nice.

[AmberC]

Very nice indeed! Good job

[Intrepid Berkeley Explorer]

You have accomplished the impossible, making a thorny weed look marvelously attractive.
I continue fighting a multi-year battle against weeds, none of which have any redeeming value.

The thistle is no friend of mine, as it tries to take over my favorite hiking trails in East Bay regional parks (San Francisco area).

[Loupey]

Wow! These are wonderful.

I especially like #2.

[SARtech]

Thanks everyone!

[A.M.D.A.]

Beautiful shots! #2 is definitely my favourite as well. Superb composition, focus, colours. I'd say it is perfect. Nice how you included a semi-OOF flower in the background---it adds depth and perspective. Well done.

The last one I like for the bug on the main flower. Adds center of interest.

VERY good job!!! :thumbsup: