Echinops ritro ssp. ruthenicus ''Platinum Blue''

This is a gorgeous, very hardy perennial that forms good-sized clumps of prickly green foliage that is downy white underneath.  Similar growth habit to Echinops ritro but with tall stems of stunning bright sky-blue globe-shaded flowers that are produced over a long period from late Spring.  Wonderful as dried flower for winter arrangements.  The colour of the flower is intensified in dry conditions.  Sun, semi-shade, well-drained soil.  Tolerates dry conditions really well once established.  120x40cm approximately.