Echinops ritro 'Veitch’s Blue'
This compact globe thistle carries deep blue heads on upright, sturdy stems. It is chosen for darker color and tidy habit compared with typical forms. It thrives in full sun and well‑drained soil and suits smaller borders. Bloom runs from mid summer to early fall and may repeat after deadheading. Plants tolerate dry conditions after establishment.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Herbaceous perennial
- Height × spread: 36–42 in (0.9–1.1 m) × 18–24 in (45–60 cm)
- Bloom window: mid summer to early fall
- Color & flower form: deep blue spherical heads
- Fragrance: 1 trace
- USDA hardiness: zones 3–8
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Cut‑flower notes: Sturdy stems; good fresh and dried.
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- More compact than many globe thistles
- Darker blue heads than the species
- Often reblooms if promptly deadheaded
- Stiffer stems resist leaning
Strengths
- Low maintenance in lean soils
- Handles drought after establishment
- Bees and butterflies frequent blooms
- Deer and rabbit resistant foliage
Care in one minute
- Grow in full sun with free‑draining soil.
- Keep fertility modest to prevent soft growth.
- Water regularly the first season; reduce later.
- Shear after first flush to encourage a light rebloom.
Watch‑outs
- May lean in high‑fertility soils
- Spiny foliage can snag hands
- Taproot complicates transplanting
Best uses (tags)
borders; cutting; pollinators; dried flowers
Provenance note
A long‑grown selection of Echinops ritro; original raiser and date are not verified in public sources.
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Echinops ritro ‘Veitch’s Blue’
- Royal Horticultural Society – Echinops ritro ‘Veitch’s Blue’
- ASPCA – Echinops spp. non‑toxic to pets
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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