Thistle is the common name of a group of flowering plants characterised by leaves with sharp prickles occurring all over the plant – on the stem and flat parts of leaves. They are an adaptation that protects the plant from being eaten by herbivores. Thistle flowers are favourite nectar sources for many butterflies. Additionally the thistle seeds are a favorite food of the Goldfinch birds. Additionally Thistles have been said to be very important nectar sources for pollinators.