Tunisian globe thistle
echinops spinosissimus
Also known as: ["Tunisian globe thistle","spiny globe thistle"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with spiny leaves and spherical, thistle-like flower heads in blue or white.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Echinops |
| Botanical Name: | Echinops spinosissimus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, gritty soil with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix amended with compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead growth; annually to shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for health or space.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent heat stress.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; amend with grit if soil compacts easily.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–9; prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates frost but may struggle in prolonged heat.
Use frost cloth in early spring/fall; water early to avoid heat buildup; group plants for microclimate benefits.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; avoid feeding in winter; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes; seeds can also be used but may take longer to establish.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing but not in peak heat.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or cactus/succulent potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is beneficial but not strictly necessary for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 4–6 weeks; division can establish in 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead flowers by cutting just above a leaf node; trim foliage with clean cuts to avoid damage.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; trim dead or damaged foliage to maintain vigor.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Clean tools; deadhead spent blooms; remove damaged leaves; shape as needed; sanitize tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; allow drainage; avoid wetting leaves; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to reduce fungal risk; water early morning or late evening for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress; leaf burn in intense sunlight.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; roots can become damaged in poorly drained soil during freeze-thaw cycles.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; plant in well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging; protect from harsh winds.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; flowering may be reduced; roots can suffer from heat and drought stress.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; water deeply and mulch to retain moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water before and after; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue in late summer to encourage hardiness.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Echinops spinosissimus. The plant's irritant compounds can cause discomfort, though severe toxicity is rare unless large quantities are consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Echinops spinosissimus roots and leaves can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant contains irritant compounds that may cause discomfort but are generally not life-threatening unless consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicEchinops spinosissimus contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The roots and leaves are the primary toxic parts, containing irritant substances that may affect the digestive system if ingested in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Echinops spinosissimus grow?
A: It typically reaches 1 to 1.5 meters in height.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Is it suitable for dry climates?
A: Yes, it is drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
