Outside, it is easy to grow, asking only for well-drained soil, particularly in winter. This is an obvious choice for the seaside garden. It will grow well in poor soil, and accompanies achillea and daylilies for a lovely presentation when they bloom together in July. Give them some space (36 inches or so), as they will take on dramatic stature.These are vigorous thistle-type plants that form upright bushes.

Our cool Maine nights will intensify the blues of echinops. Some minor self-seeding is to be expected, but don’t worry that it will spread like true thistle. Of course, few plants do! If you want none, deadheading will take care of the problem.

Echinops

View Details Echinops ritro 2" Blue flowers in mid July. Price: $8.99 View Details Echinops ritro Veitch's Blue Gray-blue flowers bloom in mid July. Price: $9.99 View Details Echinops ruthenicus Platinum Blue Steel blue flowers bloom in mid July. Similar to E. ritro but the basal leaves are deeply divided. Price: $9.99