Echinops ritro (Globe Thistle)

This striking perennial has bristly, 1- to 2- inch ball-shaped flower heads made up of small, steely-blue blossoms on erect stems with silver, spiny, lobed leaves. It's a tough, hardy plant, 3 to 4 feet tall, that grows from thick, deep-branched taproots and will survive for years without staking or division. Not picky at all. it thrives in ordinary garden soil and stays pest-free no matter how hot and humid it gets. Plant globe thistle in full sun in well-drained soil, then enjoy in your garden, in bouquets or in dried arrangements.