I loved the lighting on this teasel head. It seems to make each spine stand out and the graceful curve of the bracts adds to the beauty. It may be a dried head, but I think it is beautiful.

FROM WIKIPEDIA:

"The genus name is derived from the word for thirst and refers to the cup-like formation made where sessile leaves merge at the stem. Rain water can collect in this receptacle; this may perform the function of preventing sap-sucking insects such as aphids from climbing the stem. A recent experiment has shown that adding dead insects to these cups increases the seedset of teasels (but not their height), implying partial carnivory."

"The seeds are an important winter food resource for some birds, notably the European Goldfinch. Teasels are often grown in gardens and encouraged on some nature reserves to attract them. Teasel is also considered an invasive species in the United States."