General
Globe thistles are hardy perennial plants.
Latin
Echinops ritro
Family: Asteraceae
Difficulty
Easy
Season & Zone
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Zone: 3-9
Timing
Sow indoors 2-3 weeks before last frost, so late February on the coast. Transplant out or direct sow after last frost, between mid-March and mid-April on the coast. Seeds toake 15-60 days to germinate. Ideal temperature for germination: 18-24°C (65-75°F).
Starting
Just cover the small seeds, or push them into the soil with a fingertip. Transplant or space at 60-90cm (24-36") apart.
Growing
Water during long, dry spells, and cut back to the ground at the end of the season. Wear gloves and cover skin when handling the plants, as they are fairly prickly. Replace plants every 3-4 years as vigour diminishes.
