Cirsium arachnoideum

Herbaceous Perennial

A herbaceous perennial to around 80cm high, with upright, slightly angular stems and long, spiny, slightly hairy leaves that are pinnately divided almost to the base. In mid to late summer, produces thistle-like flower heads, with dense layers of spiny bracts edged with web-like hairs, opening to fine, bright purple florets. Flowers are followed by fluffy seed heads

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus
Cirsium may be biennials or perennials with spiny leaves and typical thistle-type flower-heads
Name Status
Unresolved

How to Grow

Cultivation

Thrives in full sun in any moist but well-drained soil

Propagation

Propagate by seed, or by division between autumn and spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Wildlife gardens

Pruning

Deadhead if seed is not required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews