General Description/History

Although there are about 120 species of Echinops, and they are a very popular garden plant in Europe, only one species, E. bannaticus is used as a cut flower. The common name Globe Thistle is a very good description of this rather startling looking cut flower. Flower-heads are about 2 to 3 cm across, blue, ball-shaped and are made up of many tiny star-shaped flowers, each with 5 petals. Leaves are thistle-like and spiky. Some varieties have a silvery-blue colour.

Echinops are grown in the field. Most are grown in Victoria or NSW.

What to look for

• Buy when about half the small star-shaped flowers are open, and are coloured clear blue;
• Avoid bunches with yellow leaves.

Flower Care

1. Keep cool at all times.
2. Strip leaves from the bottom half of each stem and wash thoroughly.
3. Leaves turn yellow before the flowers fade, so strip as many leaves off as possible.
4. Recut at least 2 cm off each stem and place in water immediately.
5. Always use a preservative as this will help keep open flowers looking fresh.
6. Replace vase water with fresh preservative every 2 to 3 days.
7. Can make very good dried flowers.

Botanical Name: Echinops bannaticus

Common Names: Globe Thistle

Stem Length: 30 to 60 cm

Country of Origin: South-east Europe

Available Colours: Blue

Season: Summer,Spring

Availability: January,February,September,October,November,Decemeber