Overview
Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum' is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Cirsium, part of the Asteraceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1-1.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit and attractive to pollinators. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens, cottage and informal garden and wildflower meadow.
About
This upright perennial produces a cluster of branching stems adorned with leaves, culminating in spherical flower heads that measure 3 cm in diameter and display a rich red hue during the summer months.
About the genus
Cirsium includes both biennial and perennial species characterized by their spiny foliage and distinctive thistle-like flower heads.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cirsium
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1-1.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Wildlife gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum'
- Cultivation
- Grow in a moist but well-drained soil in full sun; can tolerate some dryness and partial shade
- Pruning
- If self-seeding is a problem then cut back hard after flowering
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in spring or propagate by division in spring or autumn
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to powdery mildews
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum'?
Grow in a moist but well-drained soil in full sun; can tolerate some dryness and partial shade.
Where is the best place to plant Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum'?
Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum' prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum' need?
Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum'?
If self-seeding is a problem then cut back hard after flowering.
How big does Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum' grow?
Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum' reaches a height of 1-1.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum' hardy in the UK?
Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum' has a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum'?
Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in spring or propagate by division in spring or autumn.
Is Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum' good for pollinators?
Yes — Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum' attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.