GALACTITES TOMENTOSA

In midsummer, this milk thistle produces scented, purple flowers that are much loved by bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects. But it’s in autumn and winter when you can really appreciate its stunning crisp, white-andgreen variegated foliage. It is among the most stunning foliage found in gardens during November. This thistle adores free-draining, sun-rich locations in the garden and, once established, has great drought-tolerant qualities. I find it best to collect the seed and sow them straight away as viability can be erratic.

Height 50cm-1m.

Origin Mediterranean and southwestern Europe.

Conditions Free draining soil; full sun. Hardiness RHS H4, USDA 9a-10b. Season of interest Flowering in summer but excellent crisp foliage in winter.