It is said that Joseph of Arimathea put his staff in the ground, and it took root and became the miraculous thorn that flowered every Christmas and Easter.
It was cut down by the Puritans in 16thC, but locals kept cuttings and re established it.
It really was found to be of Middle Eastern origin.
Vandals cut it down yesterday.
http://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2010/12/10/Vandals-take-ax-to-Glastonbury-Thorn/UPI-37641291964666/