Definition

Noun: 1. A type of thistle plant: Any of various perennial plants belonging to the genus Echinops, characterized by prickly, deeply cut leaves and distinctive, spherical flower heads that are typically blue or bluish in color.

Usage

The term "globe thistle" is used as a common name for a group of ornamental plants. It is typically used in botanical, horticultural, and gardening contexts. * The garden's drought-tolerant border features several clumps of globe thistle. * Bees and butterflies are highly attracted to the spherical blooms of the globe thistle.

Advanced Usage

• As a specimen plant: Globe thistles are often used in garden design for their architectural form and unique texture.
  • The silvery stems and perfect blue spheres of the globe thistle make it an excellent focal point in the perennial bed.

Variants and Related Words

• Echinops (n.): The scientific genus name for globe thistle.
  • Several species of Echinops are cultivated in gardens.

Synonyms

• Echinops (when used as a common name)

Different Meanings

The term "globe thistle" refers specifically to plants in the genus Echinops. It is not used for other types of thistles (e.g., Cirsium or Carduus), which may have different flower forms.

Noun

1. any of various plants of the genus Echinops having prickly leaves and dense globose heads of bluish flowers