Oranjeband® Echinops Ritro / Blue Globe Thistle

Echinops Ritro / Blue Globe Thistle (Echinops ritro)

The Steel Blue Globe

Globe thistle produces perfectly spherical flower heads in striking steel blue. The geometric precision is remarkable – each globe is composed of tiny individual flowers packed together. The architectural quality makes it valuable fresh or dried.

Bee Spectacular

When globe thistle blooms, the spheres are covered with bees. Each tiny flower offers nectar, so a single globe feeds many bees simultaneously. The sight of a dozen bees working one flower head is remarkable.

Drying Globe Thistle

Cut before flowers fully open – they continue developing off the plant. Hang upside down in a dark, dry place. The steel blue color is preserved. The dried globes last for years and are stunning in arrangements.

Growing Tips

Full sun, average to poor soil. Drought tolerant once established. The thistle-like leaves are spiny, so plant away from pathways. Plants spread slowly and may need division every few years. Very few pest or disease problems.

Growing Echinops Ritro / Blue Globe Thistle