Prickly Thrift

Prickly thrift is an interesting, bun-shaped rock garden plant. In spring it grows as a mounding cushion of thin, needle-like leaves. In early summer, it develops graceful stalks of small pink flowers. As the summer progresses, the flowers dry in place and turn a papery white color.

Prickly thrift is very drought tolerant, but can also tolerate wetter areas if needed. Can be an interesting addition to a low water rock garden.

Cluster of small white and light pink flowers with a cactus in the background.
Close-up of clusters of small light pink and white flowers with green stems, set against a blurred background and rock.
A cluster of pale pink wildflowers with needle-like green leaves surrounded by rocks.
Close-up of plants with green and red-tipped stems and light pink flowers against a gray rock background.
Close-up of small white star-shaped flowers with brown centers on thin stems.
Close-up of spiky green foliage with a rough pinkish-brown rock on the left side.

Prickly Thrift

Prickly thrift is an interesting, bun-shaped rock garden plant. In spring it grows as a mounding cushion of thin, needle-like leaves. In early summer, it develops graceful stalks of small pink flowers. As the summer progresses, the flowers dry in place and turn a papery white color.

Prickly thrift is very drought tolerant, but can also tolerate wetter areas if needed. Can be an interesting addition to a low water rock garden.

Plant details
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Botanic Name

Acantholimon glumaceum

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Pronunciation

ak-anth-oh-LY-mon gloo-ma-see-um

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Mature Height

4 to 8 in.

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Mature Spread

12 in.

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Water usage
Water Usage

One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.

Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.

Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.

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Flower Color

pink

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Bloom time

early summer

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Colorado Native

No

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Natural Habitat

Turkey

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Light Requirements

sun

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Cold Hardiness

USDA zones 3-9

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Elevation Limit

not specified

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