Couple of 'weeds' for I.D

[boogieman84]

Have this coming up in a few places in my front garden. I'm allowing 'weeds' to grow in certain places as i'm making a wildlife garden, however I don't want invasive species taking over hence the I.D so I can decide whether to pull it up or not. I'm sure someone will know as I have seen this in many of other peoples gardens.



Large thistle type plant coming up with also a close up of the leaves. Very sharp spines as I found out the hard way! Want to I.D it for same reason as above.

Many thanks in advance.

[Hedera]

The spiky one is probably echinops, a ball-shaped thistly flower which bees like. The second I think is Purple toadflax, another bee favourite, little flowers like miniature snapdragons in a spire.

[boogieman84]

Thanks for the response. I did plant echinops last year and completely forgot where i'd put it so hopefully that is it and it will be in full flower.

I now also recognise the purple toadflax which always comes up around the garden, also nice so more than happy to leave them be!

Many thanks

[Adam Cheeseman]

Originally Posted by Hedera

The spiky one is probably echinops, a ball-shaped thistly flower which bees like. The second I think is Purple toadflax, another bee favourite, little flowers like miniature snapdragons in a spire.

I'd second those ident's.

Cheers,

Adam