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Scotch Thistle - (Onopordum acanthium) Non-GMO - Organically Grown - Flower

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Scotch Thistle - (Onopordum acanthium) Non-GMO - Organically Grown - Flower

Biennial or short-lived perennial

A flower that originates from Europe and Western Asia. This dramatic plant features large, spiny, silver-grey foliage and tall, branching stems that support purple, globe-shaped flower heads. Known for its architectural beauty, it can grow up to 8 feet tall, making it a favorite for pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Scotch Thistle is ideal for naturalized areas, cottage gardens, or as a bold statement plant in sunny borders. It thrives in poor soils, requiring minimal maintenance once established, and is drought-tolerant.

 

Plant Details

• Latin Name: Onopordum acanthium

• Life Cycle: Biennial (sometimes perennial in mild climates)

• Plant Type: Flower

• Height: 6-8 feet

• Spread: 3-4 feet

• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-8

• Sun Requirement: Full sun

• Soil: Well-drained, sandy, or rocky soil; tolerates poor soil conditions.

• Bloom Time: Late summer to early fall.

• Flower Color: Purple

 

Growing Instructions

1. Sowing Indoors:

• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.

• Sow seeds on the surface of moist seed-starting mix. Press lightly into the soil but do not cover, as light aids germination.

• Keep the temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C).

• Germination typically takes 14-21 days.

2. Sowing Outdoors:

• Direct sow in fall or early spring after the risk of frost has passed.

• Scatter seeds on the surface of loosened soil in full sun and press gently into the ground. Do not cover with soil.

3. Watering:

• Water sparingly. Scotch Thistle is drought-tolerant once established. Overwatering can harm seedlings.

4. Spacing:

• Thin seedlings to 3-4 feet apart to accommodate the plant’s mature size.

5. Care:

• Scotch Thistle requires little maintenance. Remove dead flower heads to prevent self-seeding if naturalization is not desired.

Seed count: 15

 

Stratification

For improved germination, stratify seeds as follows:

1. Place seeds in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag.

2. Refrigerate for 4-6 weeks.

3. Sow directly after stratification indoors or outdoors.

 

Scotch Thistle’s hardy, dramatic blooms make it a gardener’s favorite for pollinator-friendly spaces and xeriscaping. Its bold presence adds texture and height to any garden while requiring minimal care.