in bloom
now
through Sep
Bloom calendar
Taplow Blue
Herbaceous perennial
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)
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
