Echinops ritro is a compact perennial commonly grown for its contribution to mixed borders.
The grey/green cobwebby, deeply cut and prickly leaves make a good contrast to softer border plants, while the blue pompom shaped, thistle-like flowers provide nodding colour throughout summer.
This is a strong and upright plant and goes well in mid to rear borders.
The flowers cut well and also dry well for long-lasting and winter arrangements.
They make a good addition to traditional herbaceous borders but also work very well in gravel gardens and wilder garden settings.