Echinops sphaerocephalus
Echinops sphaerocephalus, or great globe thistle, is a perennial ornamental plant that thrives in full sun and requires low water. It grows to a height of 0.6–1.5 meters and blooms with striking blue or purple flowers from July to September. This plant prefers clay, loamy, sandy, or chalky soil and is suitable for USDA zones 3–8. It attracts pollinators.
Light
Full sun
Watering
Low water
Soil
Clay, Loamy, Sandy, Chalky
Height
0.6–1.5 m
Spread
0.3–0.6 m
Zones
3–8
Flower colors
Plant in a location with full sun exposure. Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant once established. Prefers well-drained soil; it can tolerate a variety of soil types including clay, loam, sand, and chalk. Deadhead spent blooms to prevent self-seeding if desired. Provides excellent cut flowers and is attractive to bees and butterflies.