Arabic Name

شوك الجمل

Latin Name

Echinops spinosissimus , Asteraceae

English Name

Globe Thistle

This species of Echinops is also known as Desert Thistle. It is to be found throughout the Mediterranean, Middle East and on the Arabian peninsula, and is often seen in Arriyadh and the surrounding region. Like E. hussoni, it is a perennial, but a higher species growing up to 90 or 100 cm. The difference also lies in the flowers. ‘Spinosissimus’ indicates the shape of the long spines which protrude from the globed bloom. The spiny leaves are also much denser and pointed, in contrast to other Globe Thistles. Propagation is by seed. A very undemanding plant, it is useful for planting in desert conditions and extensive landscapes, where it can provide relatively dense cover on stony ground and is attractive in all seasons.