Globe thistle
Echinops ritro
Also called Small globe thistle
Garden plant · PerennialsASPCA writes a verdict about the whole genus and it is non-toxic — rare, and worth knowing for a plant this spiny that a child will reach for anyway.
Care at a glance
- Ease
- Easy
- Water
- Every 9 daysWater the ground — water at the base, in the morning, not over the leaves.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Feed
- Not needed
- Humidity
- Low
- Hardiness
- Very hardy RHS H7, to -25°C
- Size
- 0.75 m tall · 0.3 m across
- Lifecycle
- Perennial
- Origin
- Southern and eastern Europe
Is it safe for pets and people?
PetsNothing recorded in its genus
Its genus has been checked and nothing in it is listed as harmful — but this particular species has not been listed either way.
PeopleNot checked yet
Nobody has checked this one against a source for us yet, so treat it as unknown rather than safe.
Checked against ASPCA and RHS on 2026-09-11.
A guide, not veterinary or medical advice. If a pet or a person has eaten a plant and you are worried, call your vet or doctor now — don’t wait for signs to appear. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.