Echinops banaticus 'Taplow Blue'

Upright, clump-forming perennial. Generally taller than 'Blue Glow', reaching 100-150 cm (3-5 ft) tall and 40-60 cm (1.3-2 ft) wide.

Deciduous. Deeply lobed, spiny, and rough, with a distinct silvery-green or grey-green color, often whitish and downy underneath.

Produces numerous intense steel-blue to powder-blue, spherical flower heads (globes) on strong, branched stems. Flowers are typically 4-5 cm (1.5-2 inches) across. Blooms from July to September. Highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

Thrives in full sun. While it can tolerate some partial shade, the best flowering and plant vigor occur in full sun.

Excellent (USDA Zones 3-8, hardy down to -40°C / -40°F). Very reliable in cold climates.

Very adaptable. Prefers poor to average, very well-drained soils. Tolerates dry, sandy, or rocky conditions. Avoid overly rich or consistently wet soils, as this can lead to weaker growth or rot.

Low water requirement. Extremely drought-tolerant once established.

An excellent choice for sunny perennial borders, gravel gardens, cottage gardens, and naturalistic plantings. Its strong form makes it a good architectural plant. Fantastic as a cut flower (fresh or dried). Deer and rabbit resistant.

Low maintenance. Deadhead spent flower stems to prevent excessive self-seeding and prolong blooming. Can be cut back hard in early spring to promote bushier growth. Generally pest and disease-free.

Best planted in autumn or early spring.