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Herbaceous PerennialSynonym

Echinops ruthenicus 'Platinum Blue'
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

globe thistle 'Platinum Blue'

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

Synonyms
Echinops ritro 'Platinum Blue'
Echinops ruthenicus 'Platinum Blue'
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Neutral, Alkaline, Acid
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer Blue Green Grey Silver
Autumn Blue Green Grey Silver
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or East–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming, Columnar upright
Genus

Echinops can be annuals, biennials or perennials with simple or pinnately lobed, spiny leaves and spherical blue or whitish flower-heads

Name status

Accepted

How to grow

Cultivation

Best in poor, well-drained soil in full sun but will tolerate most soils in full sun and can tolerate partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring or autumn or by root cuttings in winter. Propagate by seed in mid-spring - comes true from seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Cut flowers
Pruning

Can cut back after flowering. Alternatively leave flower heads over winter for architectural interest and for wildlife habitats.

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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