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Description
Echinops Ritro, commonly known as Globe Thistle, is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and can grow up to 4 feet tall. The plant produces unique, spherical blue flowers that bloom in mid-summer and last until early autumn. The Globe Thistle is an excellent addition to any garden, attracting bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Echinops |
Appearance
The Globe Thistle has a striking appearance with its silver-green, deeply lobed leaves and spiky stems. The spherical flowers are around 2 inches in diameter and are made up of many tiny blue or purple flowers. The flowers bloom in clusters at the top of the stem and are surrounded by spiky bracts. The Globe Thistle is a versatile plant that can be grown in borders, rock gardens or as a feature plant.
Care Guide
Echinops Ritro is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you grow a healthy Globe Thistle:
- Water: The Globe Thistle prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: The Globe Thistle prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. If your soil is heavy, amend it with sand or gravel to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Make sure it gets at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
- Hardiness Zones: The Globe Thistle is hardy in USDA Zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Globe Thistle is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some issues that may occur:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and spotting on the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Echinops Ritro is native to Europe and Asia and can be found growing in meadows, grasslands, and rocky areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but it can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Globe Thistle?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: What is the best soil for the Globe Thistle?
A: The Globe Thistle prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. If your soil is heavy, amend it with sand or gravel to improve drainage.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Globe Thistle?
A: The Globe Thistle is hardy in USDA Zones 3 to 8.
Q: Is the Globe Thistle deer resistant?
A: Yes, the Globe Thistle is deer resistant.
Related Plants
- Echinops Bannaticus
- Echinops Sphaerocephalus
- Echinops Telfairi
References
- “Echinops Ritro.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287789. Accessed 10 May 2021.
- “Echinops Ritro.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/15852/Echinops-ritro/Details. Accessed 10 May 2021.
- “Globe Thistle: How to Grow and Care for Echinops Ritro.” Garden Design, 25 Mar. 2021, www.gardendesign.com/plants/globe-thistle.html. Accessed 10 May 2021.
