Echinops ritro/ Globe Thistle

Echinops ritro, commonly known as globe thistle, is a unique perennial plant with striking, spiky blue flowers that resemble miniature globes. The flowers bloom from mid-summer to early fall and are a popular attraction for bees and butterflies. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and has deeply divided, dark green foliage that adds texture to the landscape.

Product Characteristics:
• Height: 90-120 cm (35-47 in)
• Spread: 45-60 cm (18-24 in)
• Flower color: Blue
• Flowering period: Mid-summer to early fall
• Foliage: Dark green, deeply divided
• Sunlight requirements: Full sun
• Soil requirements: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil, pH 6.0-7.5
• Hardiness Zone: 2

Uses:
Globe thistle is a great addition to any garden or landscape design. It adds a unique architectural element with its globe-like flowers and spiky foliage. It is also an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements.

Benefits:
Globe thistle is a low-maintenance plant that is drought tolerant and deer resistant. It is also attractive to pollinators and can help promote a healthy ecosystem in the garden.

Companion Plants:

• Aster 'Monch': The lavender-blue flowers of this plant complement the blue-purple flowers of Echinops ritro.
• Eryngium planum 'Blue Hobbit': The blue flowers of this plant add to the spiky and bold look of Echinops ritro.
• Hemerocallis 'Hyperion': The tall, golden-yellow flowers of this plant provide a bright pop of color next to the blue-purple flowers of Echinops ritro.

Care Instructions:
Globe thistle prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It is drought tolerant once established and should only be watered during extended dry periods. Deadhead spent flowers to promote additional blooms.

Final Thoughts:
Echinops ritro has been grown in gardens for centuries, and it remains a popular choice for its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements. Its spiky foliage and striking blue flowers add texture and color to the landscape, making it a great choice for any garden or landscape design.