Cirsium

A hardy, speading perennial with large, pricky dark green leaves.  In summer it bears deep crimson thistle-like flowerheads on erect stems.

Ideal in moist soil in sun – effective in a wild garden or steamside.

Height  x Spread 1.2m x 60cm (4ft x 2ft)

Other common names – Plume thistle ‘Atropurpureum’

Family – Asteraceae

Genus Cirsium may be biennials or perennials with spiny leaves and typical thistle-type flower-heads

Details – ‘Atropurpureum’ is an upright perennial forming a clump of branching, leafy stems with spherical, deep red flower-heads 3cm across in summer

How to grow

Cultivation – Grow in a moist but well-drained soil in full sun; can tolerate some dryness and partial shade

Propagation- Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in spring or propagate by division in spring or autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types Flower borders and beds Cut Flowers Cottage & Informal Garden Wildlife Gardens Wildflower meadow

How to care

Pruning – If self-seeding is a problem then cut back hard after flowering

Pests – Generally pest free

Diseases – May be infected by powdery mildews

In store – 15th July 2020