Echinops

Echinops, commonly known as globe thistles, is a genus in the daisy family (Asteraceae). The plants are native to Europe, Asia, and Africa and have been widely cultivated as ornamental perennials in temperate gardens. Globe thistles are herbaceous, with erect, often branched stems and spiny, blue-green leaves.

The most distinctive feature is the globose flower head, typically 2 to 4 centimeters in diameter, composed of numerous blue to purple disk florets and surrounded by spiny, protective bracts. The blooms appear in midsummer and often persist into autumn. Color varieties range from blue and violet to, less commonly, white. The flower heads attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies and are also valued in dried-flower arrangements.

Cultivation and care are straightforward. Globe thistles prefer full sun and well-drained soil and show good drought tolerance once established. They tolerate poor soils but dislike excessive moisture or consistently wet conditions. They are hardy in many temperate regions, with some species tolerating winter frost to around -20 C. Pruning after flowering helps maintain shape and encourages rebloom in some species. In good conditions they are relatively pest- and disease-resistant, though adequate spacing and air circulation reduce the risk of powdery mildew.

Propagation is commonly achieved by seed sown in spring or by division in spring or autumn. Notable species include Echinops ritro (globe thistle), Echinops bannaticus, and Echinops exaltatus, which are popular in ornamental plantings. Globe thistles are valued for their architectural form, long-lasting flowers, and versatility in borders, pollinator gardens, and dried arrangements.