Cirsium candelabrum

Also known as Greek Candelabra Thistle

Candelabra thistle forms an impressive, branched framework topped with prickly purple flower heads. Native to montane meadows across the Balkan region, it sprouts as a compact rosette in its first year before sending up a towering flowering stalk in its second. Its sharp spiny foliage protects it from grazing mammals while its rich nectar supports mountain bees and butterflies.