Details
Globe Thistle are impressive perennials known for their dramatic presence, drought tolerance, and deer resistance. wide steel-blue globes, attractive to butterflies, and ideal for fresh or dried arrangements, with minimal spines for easier harvesting. Gloves are recommended when handling these slightly prickly plants, which bloom mid-summer in their second year and contribute to diverse and wildlife-friendly garden settings.
Michigan Seeds and Plants grown on our farm, Renegade Acres, in Howell, MI!
Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth.
Additional Info
Botanical Name | Echinops ritro |
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Life Cycle | Perennial |
Min. Time to Germinate | 15 Days |
Max. Time to Germinate | 2 Months |
Depth to Sow Seeds | 1/16 in. |
When to Sow | Indoors 6-8 weeks before last spring frost |
Minimum Seed Spacing | 1" |
Growing Height | 24-36 in. (60-90 cm) |
Plant Spacing | 15-18 in. (38-45 cm) |
Hardiness | USDA Zone 3a: to -35F, USDA Zone 3b: to -30F, USDA Zone 4a: to -25F, USDA Zone 4b: to -20F, USDA Zone 5a: to -15F, USDA Zone 5b: to -10F, USDA Zone 6a: to -5F, USDA Zone 6b: to 0F, USDA Zone 7a: to 5F, USDA Zone 7b: to 10F, USDA Zone 8a: to 15F, USDA Zone 8b: to 20F, USDA Zone 9a: to 25F, USDA Zone 9b: to 30F |
Sun Exposure | Sun to Partial Shade |
Danger | Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling |
Bloom Color | Blue-Violet, Light Blue, Medium Blue |
Bloom Time | Late Summer/Early Fall |
Foliage | Blue-Green, Bronze-Green, Silver/Gray, Smooth-Textured |
Other Details | Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater, Drought-tolerant; suitable for xeriscaping |
Soil pH Requirements | 5.1 to 5.5 (strongly acidic), 5.6 to 6.0 (acidic) |
Propagation Methods | By dividing rhizomes, tubers, corms or bulbs (including offsets), From seed; direct sow outdoors in fall, From seed; sow indoors before last frost, From seed; stratify if sowing indoors, From seed; winter sow in vented containers, coldframe or unheated greenhouse |
Seed Collecting | Allow seedheads to dry on plants; remove and collect seeds, Bag seedheads to capture ripening seed |
Seeds Per Pack | 50 |