Sparky standing watch over the containers that we transferred a couple of the bushes and the russian sage.

Globe Thistle

I think this is a weed, but I like it. It's in the "weed" area of the yard. The "weed" area is right in the middle of the yard where there used to be two ponds . The year after we moved in, Jerome took all the rocks and put them in a pile behind the garage. We were going to re-do the ponds. Then we decided that it was not a good location for the ponds (right under the magnolia tree), so we will eventually move them out in the open a little more. So, for nearly 3 years, this area has been collecting weeds and baby trees - the bamboo is getting over grown, etc. A neglected area.

Update - I spent a couple of hours weeding the neglected area Sunday - it looks MUCH better now. I filled up a whole "lawn and leaf" paper bag.

Update #2 - This weed is called a Purple Loosestrife (thanks again Dynochick) and apparently it's quite invasive. It's supposed to invade wetlands and choke out other plants and wildlife. I guess this is why it's in the area where the ponds were located. Not sure if it's wild or if the former owners planted it. I still think it's quite pretty and I really don't have very many spires...so...the jury is still out.