Ornamental Thistle Seeds – Echinops ritro Flower Plant

Ornamental Thistle, commonly known as Globe Thistle, is a striking perennial valued for its unique spherical steel-blue flower heads and silvery-green foliage. Blooming from mid to late summer, this architectural plant adds texture, height, and bold visual interest to borders, cottage gardens, pollinator habitats, and xeriscape landscapes. The nectar-rich blooms are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators.

Features

• Unique globe-shaped blue flower heads
• Excellent pollinator-friendly perennial
• Attractive silvery-green foliage
• Ideal for borders, cottage gardens, and xeriscapes
• Drought tolerant once established
• Excellent for fresh and dried flower arrangements
• Low-maintenance and long-lived garden plant

Specifications

• Scientific Name: Echinops ritro
• Common Name (US): Globe Thistle / Southern Globe Thistle
• Seed Type / Variety: Flowering Perennial Ornamental Plant
• Growth Habit: Upright clump-forming perennial
• USDA Zones: 3–8
• Planting Season: Spring or Fall
• Growing Season: Spring through Summer
• Sowing Season: Early Spring or Fall
• Germination Time and Conditions: 14–28 days in moist, well-drained soil
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, average to poor soil
• Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
• Mature Plant Size: 24–48 inches tall and 18–24 inches wide
• Plant Spacing: 18–24 inches apart