Origin
Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi (C.D.Adams) C.D.Adams, commonly known as Lely's Globe Thistle, is a plant variation that is native to the Caucasus and Western Asia regions, but can also be found in some parts of Europe, Northern Africa, and Central Asia.
Common Names
Aside from Lely's Globe Thistle, Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi is also popularly known as Giant Globe Thistle or Armenian Globe Thistle.
Uses
Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi is known for its ornamental purposes, as its unique appearance can add a touch of class and elegance to any garden or landscape. This plant variation features large, deeply-lobed, elegantly-serrated leaves that are typically silver-gray or white in color with a woolly texture, and produces spiny, globular, bright violet-blue flowers that bloom in the early summer season. The flowers are a favorite among bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
General Appearance
Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi is a tall perennial plant that can grow up to 1-3 meters in height, with a spread of up to 0.5-1 meters. The stem is strong and erect, with leaves and flowers growing on separate stems. The plant prefers dry, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade.
Growth Conditions for Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi (C.D.Adams) C.D.Adams
Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi (C.D.Adams) C.D.Adams is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known as the giant globe thistle due to its large globe-like flower heads. This plant is native to the Balkans and can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 8. To ensure proper growth and development of the giant globe thistle, ensure the following growth conditions are met:
Light Requirements
Echinops giganteus var. lelyi requires full sunlight for optimal growth and development. Being a sun-loving plant, it performs best when grown in bright and direct sunlight. If grown in partial shade, the plant may not develop its characteristic large and attractive flower heads.
Temperature Requirements
The giant globe thistle prefers to grow in a cool climate with an average temperature range of 60°F to 75°F. Excessive heat can cause the plant to dry out and impact its growth. It is, therefore, important to plant the giant globe thistle in areas with a moderate temperature that is not too hot or too cold.
Soil Requirements
Echinops giganteus var. lelyi grows best in well-drained, loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH should range from 6.0 to 7.0. This plant is sensitive to waterlogging, so it is important to ensure the soil is well-draining. Adding organic matter, such as compost, can help improve the soil fertility and enhance the plant’s growth.
Cultivation
The Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi (C.D.Adams) C.D.Adams is a hardy plant that can grow in a range of climates. It can thrive in full sun or partial shade, and it prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant can grow up to 6 feet tall, so it requires plenty of space to spread out.
When planting Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi (C.D.Adams) C.D.Adams, ensure that the soil is well-draining and has adequate moisture levels. Plant the seeds 1 inch deep in the soil and space them 2-3 feet apart. You may also transplant mature plants during the fall or spring seasons.
This plant is relatively low maintenance. It can withstand frost and drought conditions, making it ideal for hot and cold climates. Once it is established, it requires minimal care to thrive.
Watering Needs
Watering requirements for this plant are simple. Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi (C.D.Adams) C.D.Adams plants require regular watering in the first few weeks after planting to help them establish. Once the plant is fully established, it can tolerate drought and does not require frequent watering.
Aim to water the plants once a week and water thoroughly until the soil is soaked. However, avoid overwatering, as this may result in root rot.
Fertilization
Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi (C.D.Adams) C.D.Adams plants do not require heavy fertilization. However, it is recommended to fertilize them with a well-balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Use a fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize every two or three months during the growing season.
It is also a good idea to add compost or organic matter to the soil to improve its fertility and drainage. This can be done before planting or as an annual top dressing.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessarily required for Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi (C.D.Adams) C.D.Adams plants. However, removing spent flowers or deadheading can prolong the blooming period and promote growth. Additionally, pruning off any diseased or damaged stems or foliage is recommended.
If you wish to control the plant's spread or size, pruning can help. Prune in the early spring or after flowering to maintain a desirable shape and size.
Propagation of Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi (C.D.Adams) C.D.Adams
Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi (C.D.Adams) C.D.Adams, commonly known as Lelyleaf globe thistle, is a herbaceous perennial plant that can be propagated through different methods. Here are some of the most common propagation methods for this plant:
Propagation by Seeds:
Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi (C.D.Adams) C.D.Adams produces small black seeds that can be collected and used for propagation. The seeds can be collected in the fall when the flower heads start to dry. After collecting the seeds, they should be stored in a cool and dry place until planting time in the spring. To increase the germination rate, the seeds can be scarified by rubbing them with sandpaper or nicking them with a knife before planting. The seeds can then be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until germination occurs, which usually takes 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by Division:
Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi (C.D.Adams) C.D.Adams can also be propagated by division. The best time to do this is in the spring or fall when the plant is not in bloom. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant and separate the root ball into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy root system and at least one shoot. Plant the divisions in a well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly. Keep the soil moist until new growth appears, which usually takes 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings:
Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi (C.D.Adams) C.D.Adams can also be propagated by stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a 3-4 inch stem from the parent plant and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a shaded and humid area until new growth appears, which usually takes 2-3 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi (C.D.Adams) C.D.Adams
Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi (C.D.Adams) C.D.Adams, commonly known as 'globe thistle', is a hardy perennial plant. Even though it is disease and pest resistant, there are a few issues that can affect the plant's growth. It is important to know these potential problems and ways to manage them for the healthy growth of the plant.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect the plant is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungus that appears as a white powdery substance on the surface of the leaves. This disease can cause yellowing and distortion of the leaves, stunted growth, and ultimately, death of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to remove the affected parts, improve air circulation around the plant, and spray the plant with a fungicide.
Another disease that can affect the plant is leaf spot. Leaf spot appears as dark spots on the leaves and can cause them to yellow and drop prematurely. This disease is caused by a fungus that thrives in warm, humid conditions. To manage leaf spot, remove affected areas, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide.
Common Pests
Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi (C.D.Adams) C.D.Adams usually does not have major pest problems. However, there are a few pests that can affect the plant.
One of the most common pests that can attack the plant is spider mites. These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of leaves and can weaken the plant. To control spider mites, periodically spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use an insecticidal soap.
Another pest that can affect the plant is the thrips. Thrips are tiny insects that can cause serious damage to the plant by sucking sap from leaves and petals, resulting in deformities and discoloration. To manage thrips, remove affected parts and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Conclusion
Echinops giganteus A.Rich. var. lelyi (C.D.Adams) C.D.Adams is a hardy and low-maintenance perennial plant that is resistant to diseases and pests. However, it is important to note the potential issues that can affect the plant and manage them promptly for healthy growth.
