Echinops (Globe Thistle)

Bringing remarkable contrast, fascination, and colour to the summer garden, all while demanding minimal effort and care, Echinops (Globe Thistle) bestows a priceless contribution to the British landscape. Bursting forth from mid-summer to early autumn, their striking and decorative, steel blue or immaculate white, ball-shaped flowers (measuring akin to a golf ball) possess an undeniable charm and allure. Delicately swaying atop sturdy stems, they elegantly waltz above their attractive foliage of dark green leaves resembling thistles. Globe Thistles reach heights of 60-150 cm and span 30-90 cm in width.

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Why Bare Root Echinops are a Staple for the British Border


For those looking to add a bit of architectural "wow factor" to their garden, you really can't go wrong with Echinops (Globe Thistle). These hardy perennials are a quintessential part of the British summer border, offering that rare combination of structural drama and "tough-as-old-boots" reliability. Whether you’re gardening on the coast or dealing with the heavy clay soils so common across the UK, Echinops will settle in and get on with the job.

Perfect for Bees and Sustainable Gardening
In an era where we’re all trying to be a bit more mindful of our local wildlife, the Globe Thistle is a true hero. It is one of the best pollinator-friendly plants you can grow; on a sunny July afternoon, you’ll find the steel-blue spheres practically buzzing with bumblebees and honeybees. If you are looking to buy bee-friendly plants online, these should be right at the top of your list.

The Benefits of Planting Bare Roots in Spring
We specialise in supplying bare root Echinops plants, which is widely considered the "gold standard" by seasoned gardeners. By planting bare roots in April, you give the plant a chance to establish a deep, resilient root system in the damp spring soil. This results in much sturdier stems and better drought resistance than pot-grown alternatives once the summer heat arrives.

Low Maintenance, High Impact
Echinops is the ultimate "plant and forget" perennial. They require no staking despite their height and are famously slug-resistant which is a massive bonus for any gardener! They look equally at home in a traditional English cottage garden or a more modern, structural gravel garden. Plus, the seed heads look stunning when touched by autumn frost, providing winter interest long after the colour has faded.

Order your bare root Echinops plants now for UK delivery from mid-March just in time for the spring planting season. We ship our globe thistle plants from London!