Ritro – Heirloom Echinops Seed

New! Perennial plant with ornamental blue globes.
1–3" wide globes take on a steel-blue hue as they mature. Dries well. Globes add texture and color to fresh and dried arrangements. Spines are minimal compared to similar types, but gloves are recommended for harvesting as the leaves and stems are a bit prickly. Begins blooming mid-summer in the second year after planting. Tolerant of hot, dry growing conditions, once established. Also commonly known as southern globethistle. Perennial in zones 3–8. Ht. 30–48". Avg. 1,700 seeds/oz. Packet: 50 seeds.
DAYS TO GERMINATION: 14-21 days at 65-75°F (18-24°C)
SOWING: Transplant (recommended) – Sow into 50-cell flats, or preferred seedling container, 6-8 weeks before planting out. Cover seeds enough to hold them in place, but not too deeply, as some light aids germination. Harden off and transplant outdoors once there is no danger of frost. Direct seed – Sow once the soil temperature has reached at least 65°F. Cover seeds lightly with soil.
LIGHT PREFERENCE: Full sun preferred, tolerates partial shade.
PLANT HEIGHT: 30-48".
PLANT SPACING: 18-24". Divide after 4-5 years to prevent overcrowding.
HARDINESS ZONES: Zones 3-9.
HARVEST: Fresh cut or dried – Harvest when 1/2 to 3/4 of the globe has turned blue. Hang to dry. If harvested too late, the globes will shatter.
SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Average, well-drained soil. Tolerates hot, dry, and poor soils conditions, once established.
USES: Fresh or dried cut flower. Holds color perfectly as a dried flower. Mid-border perennial beds. Loved by bees.
SCIENTIFIC NAMe: Echinops ritro
ALTERNATE NAMES: Globe thistle, southern globethistle