Steely Blue Spheres

Echinops ritro

I planted three of these perennials this spring.  This is the only one of the bunch that has made it to blooming status.  It’s planted out front in the border bed which is in full sun and pretty dry location.  I’m pleased with how well it is doing as a drought tolerant specimen.  The tidewater area has been hot & dry for the past few weeks with not a drop of moisture in sight. 😦

Here it is mingling nicely with the Coneflowers (Harvest Moon &  White Swan).  There’s also some of the standard Purple Echinacea to the far right that didn’t get into the photo.  The leaves are a bit scary with their spiky tips and rough texture, but it’s an interesting plant all the same.