Spiky Collection (page 18)

Conker. This is the fruit of the common horse chestnut tree (Aesculus hippocastanum). Its soft spiny shell has been torn away to reveal the hard interior nut

Long pricklyhead poppy (Papaver argemone) flower and spiky bud (right). Photographed in June

Teasel (Dipsacus fullonum). This is an immature flower head

Holly berries (Ilex aquifolium)

Globe thistle Veitchs Blue
Globe thistle flower head (Echinops ritro Veitchs Blue ) with unopened florets. This architectural perennial plant can grow on poor, sandy soils

Thorn apple seed pod. The thorn apple (Datura stramonium) is a poisonous plant of the nightshade family. It has been used in herbal medicine as a painkiller and to treat asthma

Wooly thistle (Cirsium heterophyllum)

Virus, artwork
Virus, computer artwork. Viruses contain a core of genetic material, either DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) or RNA (ribonucleic acid) surrounded by a protein coat, or capsid

Virus particles, conceptual artwork
Virus particles, conceptual computer artwork. Viruses contain a core of genetic material, either DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) or RNA (ribonucleic acid) surrounded by a protein coat, or capsid

Gorse (Ulex sp. )
Gorse bush (Ulex sp.)

Prickly pear cactus in bloom, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Tucson, Arizona, United States

Euphorbia Wulfenii (Spurge, Milkweed)
Euphorbia Characias Wulfenii (Spurge, Milkweed), an evergreen perennial with yellow-green flowers, growing in a rockery setting

Purple sea urchins and brittle stars (Strongylocentrotus purpatus ). USA, Channel Islands, CA
Tom Campbell / SplashdownDirect

Ladybirds on Sweet chestnuts
Ashley Cooper / SpecialistStock

Close up of a cultivated daisy flower
Ashley Cooper / SpecialistStock

Close-up of a prickly pear (Opuntia) cactus in flower, Sardinia, Italy, Europe

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"Nature's Spiky Beauties: From Dahlia Flower Pollen to Monkey Puzzle Trees" Delicate and intricate, the spiky pollen of a Dahlia flower reveals its hidden beauty under the scanning electron microscope (SEM). Beware the Common Thorn Apple, also known as Jimson Weed - its menacing seed pod is adorned with sharp spikes that protect its precious cargo. In the lush tropical rainforests of Tambopata Reserve, Hoatzins find their perch among spiky branches, blending seamlessly with nature's tapestry. Standing tall on lava flows in Conguillo National Park, Monkey Puzzle trees proudly display their spiky leaves, defying harsh conditions with resilience. A teenage girl rocks an iconic 80s haircut - her rebellious spikey locks reflecting an era defined by boldness and self-expression. Along the coast of Bahia de Los Angeles in Baja California, Mexico, Coastal Agave leaves stand tall and proud with their spikey edges braving windswept shores. The Thistle stands as a symbol of strength and resilience amidst adversity; its prickly exterior protecting delicate blooms within. Simon Le Bon finds solace amidst Cornwall's rugged coastline - his presence echoing the untamed spirit of this spiky landscape. Palau in Sassari Province offers a stunning sight - cacti reaching for the sky with their thorny arms outstretched against Italy's Sardinian backdrop. Underneath a scanning electron microscope (SEM), Marrow and Forget-me-not pollen reveal intricate patterns resembling tiny spiked spheres ready to disperse life into the world. Chinese Hibiscus pollen showcases nature's artistry when magnified under SEM – each spike meticulously crafted to ensure successful pollination and reproduction.