Structured and Long-Lasting Beauty
Globe Thistle (Echinops ritro), offered by OSC Seeds
The globe thistle is a striking perennial, featuring violet-blue, spiky, globular flowers on sturdy stems reaching 75–90 cm. Its serrated, thistle-like foliage adds a unique texture. This hardy plant is a favorite of pollinators, especially bees. Apart from cutting back stems after blooming, it requires minimal maintenance.
Spread: Not applicable
Plant height: 75 to 90 cm
Packet size: Approx. 30 seeds
Companion plants: Lavender, coneflower, black-eyed Susan
Incompatible plants: None notable
How to Grow:
Start seeds indoors in a soilless mix in early March. Press seeds lightly onto the surface, as light aids germination. Maintain a temperature of 21°C. Once germinated, place under lights at a slightly cooler temperature before hardening off and transplanting to a sunny spot. Alternatively, direct sow outdoors in August or early September for blooms the following year. Germination occurs in 10–20 days.
Globe thistle is a durable, decorative plant ideal for gardens and unique dried flower arrangements.
