Echinops sphaerocephalus Arctic Glow (Great Globe Thistle)

Strongly branched, Echinops sphaerocephalus 'Arctic Glow' (Great Globe Thistle) is a vigorous perennial with a profusion of golf-ball sized, densely packed with white, starry flowers. Blooming from mid to late summer, they are borne at the end of sturdy, reddish stems and contrast nicely with the foliage of silvery-green leaves. Adding outstanding contrast, interest and color to the summer garden while being trouble-free and low maintenance, Great Globe Thistle makes an invaluable contribution to the landscape.

• Grows up to 2-3 ft. tall and wide (60-90 cm). Will self-seed in the garden if not deadheaded.
• Thrives in full sun in average, consistently moist, well-drained soils. Tolerates a wide range of soils, including poor dry soils. While moisture is required during its growing season, this plant is drought tolerant thereafter.
• A lovely addition to beds and borders, cottage gardens, wildlife gardens or coastal gardens.
• Resilient to most pests and diseases, deer and rabbit resistant, this is a real magnet for bees or butterflies.
• Deadheading the flowers will extend the bloom season.
• Propagate by division in spring or by root cuttings in the dormant season. Propagate by seed in mid-spring as this cultivar will come true from seed
• Cut down winter damaged stems to the base in early spring. Flowers are excellent for dried arrangements. Cut them before they open and dry them upside down.