• Cirsium rivulare &
1 1

Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum'

Ornamental Thistle

£6.99
£6.99
This elegant, non-invasive ornamental thistle produces rich purple-red flowers on tall, upright stems, attracting bees and butterflies.
  • Non-invasive ornamental thistle
  • Long flowering period
  • Excellent for pollinators
Size

    • Aspect

      Full sun

    • Hardiness

      Hardy

    • Flowers

      June, July, August

    • Soil type

      Moist but well-drained, Loamy, Clay

    Cirsium rivulare &

    • Why we like this plant

      Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum' is an excellent choice for adding vertical interest to borders, with its bold flowers providing colour and nectar for pollinators throughout the summer.

    • About this plant

      Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum' is a highly decorative, clump-forming perennial that brings structure and colour to borders. Unlike its wild relatives, this thistle is well-behaved, non-invasive, and produces stunning deep crimson flower heads from late spring to early autumn. The blooms are held on tall, sturdy stems above a base of deeply lobed green foliage, making it a superb choice for pollinator-friendly gardens. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and pairs beautifully with grasses and other perennials in naturalistic planting schemes.

    • Key features

      • Deep crimson, thistle-like flowers
      • Long flowering period from late spring to early autumn
      • Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
      • Tall, upright growth perfect for mixed borders

    • Height and
      spread

    • Growth
      habit

      Clump-forming, upright

    • Moisture

      Moderate moisture needs

    • Position in
      the Garden

      Borders, wildlife gardens, prairie planting

    Planting guide

    • Plant in moist but well-drained soil
    • Space plants 60cm apart for good air circulation
    • Thrives in full sun but tolerates light shade

    Care tips

    • Deadhead regularly to encourage repeat flowering
    • Cut back to ground level in late autumn
    • Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigour

    Winter care

    • Leave seed heads for winter interest and wildlife
    • Apply mulch around the base to protect roots in cold areas
    • Remove any dead foliage in early spring