Star Thistle Honey

Star Thistle honey originated in the Mediterranean from the yellow star thistle plant (also known as knapweed) and migrated to the US in the mid nineteenth century. Considered a noxious weed by many, this star thistle clustered amongst thorns produces yellow star thistle honey, which is relished by honey enthusiasts. Star thistle, blooming mid-summer, grows on the dry hills and along the road-sides of Northern California. It is considered to be a noxious weed, however, the bees love the nectar from this prickly plant. It has a unique, candy-like flavor which is why beekeepers seek out hive locations in the densely flowered areas. It’s wonderful to bake with as its light flavor never overpowers the subtle flavors of cakes, cookies and more.

Raw honey is not filtered or heated. It contains all the live enzymes, pollen, propolis and floral essences that the honeybees put into it. Our bees determine the color, flavor and texture of our honey just by the varieties of flowers and herbs they forage in Mendocino, Lake and Sonoma counties. In order to maintain the highest level of taste and nutrition in our raw, unfiltered honey, we never heat our honey to more than 100 degrees, just enough to get it into the jar. Filtering removes most pollen particles and heat can change the color, taste and destroy the vitamins.