Species small globe thistle Guide
a blue-white flower with gray-blue spadix on a white stem

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.