Cirsium purpuratum
A short-lived herbaceous perennial, up to around 1m high, with lobed, spiny, dark green leaves up to 70cm long at the base of the plant, decreasing in size up the stems. In late summer, produces large, nodding flower heads, with recurved, spiny bracts and masses of fine, purple-pink florets. Flowers are followed by fluffy seed heads
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Purple Pink | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Cirsium may be biennials or perennials with spiny leaves and typical thistle-type flower-heads
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Japan (C Honshu)
How to grow
Cultivation
Thrives in well-drained soil in full sun; a good option for sandy slopes or gravel or scree gardens
Propagation
Propagate by seed, or by division in autumn or early spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
- Banks and slopes
Pruning
Deadhead if seed is not required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews
Get involved
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