
Globe Thistle 'Ritro' (Echinops)
A fantastic architectural perennial, Echinops ritro, or the Globe Thistle, brings wonderful texture, colour, and structure to the garden. It forms a handsome clump of large, thistle-like leaves that are deep green on top and a contrasting, downy white underneath. In mid to late summer, the plant sends up strong, branching, silvery stems, each topped with a perfectly spherical, spiky flowerhead. The flowerheads start as silvery-green globes and gradually open into a stunning shade of intense, metallic blue. These globes are a magnet for bees and butterflies, who can often be seen covering the flowers. The flowerheads remain attractive long after the colour has faded, providing winter interest, and they are exceptional for both fresh and dried flower arrangements. It is a tough, drought-tolerant plant that thrives on neglect.
Botanical name | Echinops ritro |
Flower colour | Blue |
Bulb size | N/A (sold as plant/root) |
Established height | 90-120 cm |
Established spread | 50-60 cm |
Plant spacing | 60 cm apart |
Leaf colour | Green, Silver |
Habit | Clump-forming, upright |
Life cycle | Perennial |
Hardiness | Fully hardy |
Years to establish | 1st year |
Sunlight | Full sun |
Position | Exposed or Sheltered |
Suitable for | Borders, Gravel gardens, Wildlife gardens, Cut flower gardens |
Soil acidity | Any |
Soil moisture | Well-drained |
Soil type | Loam, Sandy, Chalky |
RHS Award (AGM) | Yes |
Growing skill | Easy to grow |
Pollinator-friendly | Yes |
Deer resistant | Yes |
Planting and Flowering Calendar
Key Features
Packed in paper
Packed peat-free
Great for Shade
Attracts wildlife
Drought tolerant
RHS Award (AGM)
Good for cutting