Echinops banaticus 'Blue Glow'

Upright, clump-forming perennial. Reaches 90-120 cm (3-4 ft) tall and 30-60 cm (1-2 ft) wide.

Deciduous. Deeply dissected, spiny, silvery-green foliage, rough on top, whitish and downy underneath.

Intense steel-blue, perfectly round flower heads (globes), about 4-5 cm (1.5-2 inches) across, borne on stiff, branching stems. Blooms from July to August (early to late summer). Highly attractive to bees and butterflies.

Thrives in full sun. Tolerates some partial shade, but flowering is best in full sun.

Excellent (USDA Zones 3-8). Very cold-hardy (down to -34°C / -30°F).

Very adaptable. Prefers poor to average, well-drained soils. Tolerates dry, sandy, or rocky conditions. Avoid rich, fertile soils, which can lead to leggy growth.

Low water requirement. Drought-tolerant once established.

Ideal for sunny borders, cottage gardens, gravel gardens, and wildflower meadows. Excellent as a cut flower (fresh or dried). Provides strong vertical accent.

Low maintenance. Cut back spent flower stems to encourage rebloom and prevent excessive self-seeding. Generally pest and disease free. Deer and rabbit resistant.

Best planted in autumn or early spring.