Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Cirsium rivulare ‘Atropurpureum’
Atropurpureum Plum Thistle
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Height
- 3 to 4 feet
- Width
- 2 to 3 feet
- Flower color
- Deep magenta to crimson, thistle-like flowers
- Foliage color
- Deep green with a slightly spiny texture
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early summer, often with a second flush in fall
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Deadhead to encourage repeat blooming; cut back in late fall
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 9
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
About this plant
Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum' is an elegant, clump-forming perennial prized for its vibrant, deep magenta to crimson flower heads. The flowers, which resemble soft thistle tufts, appear on tall, slender stems from late spring to early summer, with occasional intermittent blooms later in the season. These blooms stand out beautifully against the backdrop of its mid-green, deeply divided foliage, adding vertical interest and texture to the garden.
Originating from wet meadows and riverbanks in parts of Europe, Cirsium rivulare 'Atropurpureum' is a refined choice for gardeners seeking a pollinator-friendly plant. Its nectar-rich flowers are particularly attractive to bees and butterflies, making it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly planting schemes. The plant thrives in mixed borders and naturalistic garden settings, where its bold blooms complement a variety of companion plants.
Works well in
Borders · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Hellebores · Hardy geraniums · Hostas · Ferns · Astilbes · Foxgloves
Design tip
Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. It takes sun or light shade, which makes it useful along the changing light of a bed edge or a partly shaded border.
