Onopordum (Big Silver-Leaved Thistle) Scottish Thistle Organic, Open Pollinated Non GMO • Flower

Onopordum (Big Silver-Leaved Thistle) Scottish Thistle Organic, Open Pollinated Non GMO • Flower

Biennial 

This stunning heirloom thistle is a true garden showstopper. With its dramatic silver-gray leaves and tall spires of purple blooms, Onopordum, also known as the Scottish Thistle, adds striking texture and color to any garden. These thistles are a symbol of strength and resilience, thriving in even the toughest conditions. Perfect for pollinator gardens, their flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

Onopordum is easy to grow from seed, with large leaves that form a bold rosette in the first year before producing towering flower stems in the second. Drought-tolerant and deer-resistant, this hardy plant is perfect for low-maintenance gardens.

*Grow this iconic thistle and enjoy its bold beauty in your garden year after year.*

Growing Instructions:

1. Seed Stratification:
Onopordum seeds benefit from cold stratification. To prepare them for planting:
- Place the seeds in a damp paper towel or mix them with moist sand.
- Seal them in a plastic bag and refrigerate for 4-6 weeks. This mimics the natural winter conditions needed to break dormancy.

2. Sowing Time:
After stratification, sow the seeds in early spring or late fall, as these thistles prefer cooler temperatures for germination.

3. Seed Sowing Depth:
Sow the seeds shallowly, about 1/8 inch (3 mm) deep. Lightly cover with soil, as they require some light to germinate.

4. Soil Requirements:
Onopordum prefers well-draining soil, and it thrives in poor, dry soils. It is highly adaptable and can tolerate rocky or sandy conditions.

5. Sunlight Needs:
Plant in full sun for best growth, as these thistles enjoy hot, sunny locations.

6. Watering:
Water sparingly after sowing, as Onopordum is drought-tolerant once established. Too much moisture can cause the seeds to rot.

7. Germination Time:
Seeds typically take 2-3 weeks to germinate, depending on conditions.

8. Spacing:
Once seedlings are established, thin them to about 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) apart to allow room for the large, silver leaves to develop.

9. Care:
These plants are low-maintenance and can tolerate neglect. Their deep taproots help them thrive in harsh environments.

10. Flowering:
Expect tall, spiky thistles with beautiful silver foliage to appear in the second year, as Onopordum is biennial. Flowering occurs in late summer.

Seed count: 15