Echinops ritro (small globe thistle) is a member of the Asteraceae family. This perennial exhibits a clump forming growth habit and is characterised by its deciduous foliage. It has a hardiness rating of very hardy (colder than -20ºc) and is hardy in the severest European continental climates, including exposed upland locations in the UK.
When fully mature, Echinops ritro can reach an ultimate height of 0.5–1 metres and a spread of 0.1–0.5 metres. For optimal growth, it prefers an east–facing, south–facing, or west–facing aspect and an exposed position. It thrives best in chalk, loam, or sand soil types and should be placed in full sun or partial shade.
| Seasonal colour |
Flower
|
Foliage
|
Fruit
|
Stem
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |