Round-headed whitefish (Echinops sphaerocephalus)

Other names: round thistle

The round-headed thistle, also known as round thistle, is a unique plant found in the Czech landscape. This distinctive herb with its characteristic round inflorescence can captivate with its wild yet elegant appearance. Its peculiarity is that spikes of flowers can form on a single stem, which can be up to 5 cm in diameter. The colour of the flowers can range from white to light blue to deep purple. The leaves of this plant are firm and have short spines on them. The round-leaved white-headed whitefly grows up to 1 metre tall and usually flowers from July to September.

Due to its valuable active substances, it is also used in medicine. For example, the plant can be used to make ointments and creams that are effective against inflammatory skin diseases. It is also used in cosmetics, where it is mainly used for its astringent effects, i.e. tightening of pores. It is also used as an important insecticide, i.e. insect repellent. In addition, it is a plant that is very attractive to bees, so it is also popular with beekeepers. Round-leaved thistle is therefore a plant whose utility value is very diverse.