Echinops Exaltatus

Description

Echinops Exaltatus, also known as lofty globe thistle, is a unique and beautiful plant native to Central Asia. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and produces blue thistle-like flowers that bloom in summer. The plant can grow up to 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide and has an upright habit. It’s a great addition to any garden and attracts both bees and butterflies.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Echinops Exaltatus has silvery-green leaves that are deeply lobed and spiny. The leaves can grow up to 10 inches long and 4 inches wide. The plant produces blue thistle-like flowers that are 1 to 2 inches in diameter and bloom in summer. The flowers are surrounded by stiff, spiny bracts that give the plant a unique and interesting look. The plant can grow up to 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide and has an upright habit.

Care Guide

Echinops Exaltatus is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you take care of your plant:

• Water: Water your plant regularly, especially during the hot and dry summer months. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Plant your Echinops Exaltatus in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Echinops Exaltatus is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Echinops Exaltatus is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust if grown in poorly ventilated areas with high humidity. To prevent these diseases, make sure to plant your Echinops Exaltatus in a well-ventilated area with good air circulation.

Habitat

Echinops Exaltatus is native to Central Asia and can be found growing in rocky or gravelly areas, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate hot and dry conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Echinops Exaltatus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Echinops Exaltatus can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its size and the soil is well-draining.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Echinops Exaltatus?
A: Fertilize your Echinops Exaltatus once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: Does Echinops Exaltatus require pruning?
A: Echinops Exaltatus doesn’t require pruning, but you can prune it after flowering to promote bushier growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy.

Q: How long do the flowers of Echinops Exaltatus last?
A: The flowers of Echinops Exaltatus bloom in summer and can last for several weeks.

Related Plants

• Echinops Ritro
• Echinops Bannaticus
• Echinops Spinose

References

• “Echinops Exaltatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c912
• “Echinops Exaltatus (Lofty Globe Thistle).” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/echinops-exaltatus-lofty-globe-thistle
• “Echinops Exaltatus (Lofty Globe Thistle).” North Carolina State University, https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/echinops-exaltatus/