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Why we like this plant
Echinops bannaticus 'Taplow Blue' is perfect for adding architectural interest to the garden, with its dramatic blue flower spheres and textured foliage. It is highly attractive to pollinators, thrives in poor soils, and requires minimal maintenance, making it an excellent choice for both contemporary and cottage-style plantings.
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About this plant
A stunning choice for adding texture and colour to garden borders, Echinops bannaticus 'Taplow Blue' produces large, metallic-blue, globe-like flowers that sit atop sturdy, upright stems. The spiky, deeply cut foliage has a silvery-green hue, creating an attractive contrast with the vivid blooms. Flowering from mid to late summer, this low-maintenance perennial is loved by bees and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for wildlife-friendly gardens. Drought-tolerant and highly resistant to pests, it thrives in poor, well-drained soils and is an excellent cut flower for fresh or dried arrangements.
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Key features
- Striking spherical blue flowers
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
- Drought-tolerant and easy to grow
- Silvery-green, deeply lobed foliage for added texture
- Ideal for cut flowers and dried
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Height and
spread -
Growth
habitUpright, clump-forming
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Moisture
Drought-tolerant once established; prefers dry to moderately moist soil
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Position in
the GardenBorders, prairie-style planting, wildlife gardens, and cut flower beds
Planting guide
- Space plants about 45-60cm apart to allow for air circulation
- Prefers well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
- Water regularly when young, but reduce once established
Care tips
- Plant in well-drained soil in full sun
- Cut back after flowering to encourage a second flush of blooms
- Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigour
- Handle with care, as stems and leaves can be slightly spiky
Winter care
- Leave seed heads intact for winter interest and wildlife
- Cut back dead growth in early spring before new shoots emerge
- Mulch lightly in colder regions to protect roots