@bwbillh This photo caught my eye as I went through the photo contest. The texture is striking ... the color combination beautiful. What is this flower? My best guess is a thistle, but I don't know. Since I also live in the mountains of north Georgia, perhaps this is something I can grow.

You are correct, it is a thistle that hasn't fully opened. I find the flower to be very beautiful in almost every stage of its development.

If you haven't already tried or have any the Strawflower is also a nice plant to grow.

Thanks for confirming the thistle, and thanks for the lead about Strawflower. I may give them a try - any suggestions on how to protect them from the heat? Best planted in afternoon shade?

The Strawflowers I planted didn't receive the late afternoon sun, but pretty much handle everything else. My biggest problem was just getting the seeds to germinate, after that they did good.