This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun
• Soil: poor, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: August
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Ever popular for their globes of blue flowers that attract hoards of insects, globe thistles bring a natural look to the garden. This handsome blue variety is ideal for the middle or back of a sunny, well-drained border. It makes a particularly good cut or dried flower.
  
  
• Garden care: Cut down to the ground after flowering to encourage a second flush of flowers. Lift and divide congested colonies in autumn or spring.