Echinops ritro 'Veitch's Blue'

Globe Thistles or Echinops ritro 'Veitch's Blue' are especially useful in smaller gardens and in mixed flower plantings. The basal leaves do tend to deteriorate, so try to conceal them with smaller plants that allow the colourful flowerheads to stand above. Globe thistle is especially valued for dried arrangements, but be sure to cut the flowerheads just before the tiny flowers are fully open. Dry quickly upside-down in a warm, airy environment, and they will retain their blue colour. An added bonus: bumblebees, moths and butterflies find the flowers irresistible!