Echinops Globe Thistle

Metallic blue flower heads open to brilliant blue spheres. They bloom freely amongst thistle like foliage. The flowers are 2.5-4.5cm across and open from mid to late summer, most often lasting on the bush well into autumn.

The Echinops leaves are mid green and oval when young, as the plants mature, the leaves become heavily lobed and thistle like. This bold foliage makes a strong, architectural statement in the garden. Each leaf grows up to 20cm long and has a soft underside.

Echinops flowers will last well when cut for indoor arrangements. They can even be dried, so technically last forever!

Echinops thrive in a sunny location in a well drained soil. They will cope well with poor soils and thrive in humus rich ones. Echinops will grow to form a large clump.

Keep an eye out for aphids, especially in summer, treat with your choice of insecticide (homemade or commercial).