Southern globethistle - Echinops ritro (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Southern globethistle

Also known as: Small globe thistle

Like other thistle plants, the southern globethistle has prickly, weed-like leaves. However, its large, showy purple balls of flowers create a stunning display in gardens and flower beds. These cheerful blooms are drought tolerant and will grow just fine in poor soil.

Scientific classification

Species

Southern globethistle (Echinops ritro)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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60 cm

Plant Height

45 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green, Gray

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 4.5 cm

Flower Size

Blue, Green

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Southern globethistle

Culture

Garden Use

The spiky, cobwebbed leaves and globes of metallic-blue blooms atop tall stems are the hallmark traits of southern globethistle. Best used in the backrow of garden beds, this pollinator magnet is perfect in wildlife and gravel gardens. Southern globethistle looks its best when grown alongside other late-summer bloomers, such as cardoons and echinaceas.

Symbolism

Nobility and independence

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Southern globethistle, including the following common varieties :

Southern globethistle 'Veitch's Blue'

Quickly Identify Southern globethistle

Spherical, steel-blue flower heads with star-shaped florets, blooming mid-summer to September.

Coarse, spiny, deeply dissected leaves with white tomentose undersides, prominent vein pattern.

Globular steel-blue to violet-gray seedheads containing small, dry achenes, turning tan in maturity.

Stiff, erect stem covered in grayish-white hairs, reaching 1.3 to 2.6 feet (40 to 80 cm) tall.

Drought-tolerant, deer-resistant plant thriving in well-drained soils, reaching 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) in height.

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Care Guide for Southern globethistle

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Southern globethistle prefers moderate moisture and benefits from consistent watering, ideally once a week. Adapted for brief droughts, it effectively conserves water with its deep root system, thriving in temperate climates with variable rainfall.

Fertilize: For southern globethistle, use balanced fertilizers during the growing season and high phosphorus formulas before blooming. Apply monthly while avoiding over-fertilization. Adjust frequency in winter, dilute concentrates, and distribute evenly around the base. Proper fertilization enhances southern globethistle's health, vitality, and flowering resilience.

Pruning: Southern globethistle has spiky, globe-like flowers and grey-green leaves. Prune early in spring to remove damaged stems and encourage growth, with light shaping in late spring. Remove spent flowers to prevent self-seeding. Proper pruning fosters air circulation, reduces disease risk, and promotes healthy growth.

Propagation: Southern globethistle propagates best in spring by sowing, with moderate difficulty. Successful propagation is marked by germination and young sprouts. For optimal results, ensure adequate soil moisture and sunlight.

Repotting: Repot southern globethistle every 2-3 years in spring using deep pots for its taproot system, allowing growth up to 2-3 feet. After repotting, provide full sun and moderate watering for recovery. Share tips on caring for southern globethistle's unique blue spherical blooms with fellow gardeners.

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