Cardoon

£5.99

Position: full sun
Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
Rate of growth: average Flowering period: June to September
Hardiness: fully hardy
The majestic, purple, thistle-like, honey-scented flowers of this stately cardoon are held above clumps of magnificent, deeply cut, silvery-green leaves. Given plenty of space, this perennial makes an eye-catching focal-point for a large, sunny, mixed or herbaceous border, or potager, sheltered from strong winds. The flower are particularly valuable for use in fresh or dried flower arrangements
Garden care: Avoid the temptation to remove the faded flower-heads in autumn as they provide interest in the winter garden. Where temperatures fall below -15C (5F) protect the crown of the plant with a dry, straw mulch.

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