Echinops bannaticus 'Taplow Blue'
This tall globe thistle bears big steel blue flower heads on branching stems. It stands out for height and flower count in midsummer borders. It performs best in full sun and lean, well‑drained soil. Plants handle heat and dry spells after establishment. Spiny foliage is gray green above and white beneath.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Herbaceous perennial
- Height × spread: 40–60 in (1.0–1.5 m) × 20–40 in (0.5–1.0 m)
- Bloom window: mid summer to early fall
- Color & flower form: steel blue spherical heads
- Fragrance: 1 trace
- USDA hardiness: zones 3–8
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Cut‑flower notes: Firm stems; good fresh and dried.
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Taller than many globe thistles
- Large heads on well‑branched stems
- Color holds best in full sun
- May need support in rich soil
Strengths
- Drought tolerant once established
- Deer and rabbit resistant foliage
- Pollinator friendly
- Low maintenance in lean soils
Care in one minute
- Plant in full sun with open exposure.
- Provide well‑drained, average to poor soil; neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
- Water to establish; then water deeply but infrequently.
- Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers.
- Deadhead to limit self‑seeding; stake if needed.
Watch‑outs
- Flops in rich or wet soil
- Spiny leaves can irritate skin
- Taproot makes moving difficult
Best uses (tags)
cutting; borders; pollinators; dried flowers
Provenance note
A selection of the southeastern European species Echinops bannaticus; raiser and date unknown.
References
- Royal Horticultural Society – Echinops bannaticus ‘Taplow Blue’
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Echinops (culture overview)
- ASPCA – Echinops spp. non‑toxic to pets
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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