This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun
• Soil: moist, well-drained
• Rate of growth: average to fast-growing
• Flowering period: July to August
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Only recently introduced, this striking plume thistle looks particularly effective in a prairie-style setting, where its stiff, upright habit offers an attractive contrast to the soft silhouette of the ornamental grasses.
  
  
• Garden care: Divide congested plants from autumn to spring and cut back to the ground in autumn to prevent self-seeding.