small globe thistle
Echinops ritro
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Minimum
Propagation:
Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
3 - 8
Flowers:
Blue Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Thorny:
Yes
Invasive:
Yes
Care Level:
Moderate
watering
Small globe thistle (Echinops ritro) requires very little water when grown in well-drained soil in a sunny, warm spot. It should be watered deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. During the summer months, it may require more frequent watering due to extreme temperatures and lack of rain. In winter, water should be significantly reduced, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. If the soil becomes too soggy, roots can rot and the plant can die.
sunlight
Small globe thistle (Echinops ritro) is an herbaceous perennial plant which prefers sunny locations. The plant should receive direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours each day to thrive. Morning sunlight is best as it will help to keep the plant healthy and flowering. It should be noted that the plant does not prefer intense midday summer sun. In these conditions, it may suffer from scorched leaves and compromised root growth. Instead, the plant should be kept relatively shaded during the hot afternoon hours, with some dappled sun throughout the day.
pruning
Small Globe Thistle (Echinops ritro) should be pruned right after blooming. Since it is an herbaceous perennial, dead heads should be removed and the stems should be cut down close to the ground. This will help encourage new growth and keep the plant healthy. If the plant becomes too large for its space, it can be cut back by about 1-third. This should be done in early spring, before new growth begins. Regular light pruning should also be done throughout the growing season to remove any diseased or dead foliage.
