About
A compact, clump-forming herbaceous perennial 80-90cm tall, with silvery-green, thistle-like leaves. Bright, metallic-blue, spherical flower heads are borne on tall, branched, silvery stems in late summer; comes true from seed.
About the genus
Echinops can be annuals, biennials or perennials with simple or pinnately lobed, spiny leaves and spherical blue or whitish flower-heads
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHNeutral, Alkaline, Acid
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming, Columnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationBest in poor, well-drained soil in full sun but will tolerate most soils in full sun and can tolerate partial shade
PruningCan cut back after flowering. Alternatively leave flower heads over winter for architectural interest and for wildlife habitats.
PropagationPropagate by division in spring or autumn or by root cuttings in winter. Propagate by seed in mid-spring - comes true from seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free