Echinops 'The Giant'

A sizable and impressive plant that was discovered relatively recently and is rather hard to find. Don’t miss out, if you have the space it is a real head turner.

The deeply dissected, thistle like leaves lend a wonderful texture and striking architectural element to the garden. From this clumping foliage emerge erect, silver stems topped with tennis ball sized blooms. The silver globes last an age, maturing to silver blue. They are sensational as cut flowers and can even be dried. Of course, you could also leave them in their senescence for a bit of structure and show.

The late summer blooms can last well into autumn and even beyond when deadheaded.

This low maintenance stunner is surprisingly hardy. It loves the sun, doesn’t mind poor soils and is dry tolerant once established. Echinops will grow to form a nice, healthy clump.

Cut back when you are ready, the senescent foliage and flowers will hold their own over winter for an early spring prune – or you might prefer they are cut back when the silver turns to bronze.