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Genus Echinops (Globe thistle)

Echinops Echinops ritro Photo/Illustration: Courtesy of Bluestone Perennials
EK-in-nops Common Name: Globe thistle
Globe thistles have spiny foliage that is often grayish-green and woolly. The plants do well in a wide range of garden sites, from a wild garden to a cottage garden. The flowers are suitable for fresh cutting or drying. 
 Noteworthy characteristics: The genus is grown for its unique spherical flowerheads in shades of blue, white, or green. The terminal flowers add charm of form and texture in a mixed border.
 Care: Prefers poor, well-drained soil in full sun, but will tolerate a range of soils and partial shade. Deadhead to prevent self-sowing.
 Propagation: Sow seed in mid-spring; divide in fall or spring.
 Problems: Aphids.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Echinops

Echinops ritro Echinops ritro
(Small globe thistle) Be the first to rate this plant
Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

This compact species has cobweb-like, woolly foliage. The unique spherical flowerheads appear steely blue before maturing to a brighter blue. The late summer flowers add charm of form and texture to a mixed border.