About
A clump-forming perennial, to around 1.2m high, with simple, lobed or pinnately divided, spiny dark emerald leaves with hairy undersides. In early to mid summer, produces rounded, thistle-like flowers, with tubular reddish-purple petals.
About the genus
Cirsium may be biennials or perennials with spiny leaves and typical thistle-type flower-heads
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Native toC & SW Europe
Care notes
CultivationThrives in full sun, particularly in damp, acidic soil but will tolerate a range of soils and positions
PruningDeadhead if seed is not required
PropagationPropagate by seed, or by division between autumn and spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews