Echinops ritro subsp. ruthenicus (Small Globe Thistle) is an erect herbaceous perennial boasting bright blue, globe-shaped flowers, 2.5 in. across (6 cm) at the end of sturdy, multi-branching, silvery-white stems. Blooming from mid summer to early fall, the bold and ornamental flowers rise above the foliage of glossy, sharply divided, silvery-green leaves, covered in down beneath. Adding outstanding contrast, interest and color to the summer garden while being trouble-free and low maintenance, Small Globe Thistle is more compact than the species and makes an invaluable contribution to the landscape. Perfect for fast draining soils in full, hot sun and dry locations. Truly lovely and perfectly suited to cottage gardens or coastal gardens.

• Grows up to 2-3 ft. tall (60-90 cm) and 18-24 in. across (45-60 cm).
• Thrives in full sun in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. Tolerates a wide range of soils, including poor, infertile soils. Rich soils to be avoided. While moisture is required during its growing season, this plant is drought tolerant thereafter.
• A lovely addition to beds and borders, cottage gardens, wildlife gardens or coastal gardens.
• Resilient to most pests and diseases, deer and rabbit resistant, this is a real magnet for bees or butterflies.
• Propagate by seed sown in seed bed in mid spring. Propagate by division in spring or autumn. Propagate by root cuttings in winter
• Deadhead to prevent self-seeding. Flowers are excellent for dried arrangements. Cut them before they open and dry them upside down.
• Native from southeastern Europe and southern Russia to eastern China.