Bees absolutely love globe thistles. This one grows to 1m tall and 50cm across (over a couple of years) in full sun and moist well-drained soils. Striking white flowers are produced in the second year, from July to September.
When its not in flower this plant can look a little scruffy so it's a good one for the middle or back of the border.
Globe Thistle / Echinops ritro 'Star Frost'
Position: Flower border
Flowering months: Jul / Aug
Light: Full sun / Mix of sun and shade / Dappled shade
Soil: Clay / Loam / Chalk / Sand
Tested in our local soil (t.i.o.l.s.): Yes (but avoid heavy clay)
Drainage: Well drained
Life cycle: Perennial (lives for many years)
Hardiness: Fully hardy (in Bristol winters)
Over winter: Dies back (deciduous)
Drought tolerant: Yes