Propagation
Sow fresh seeds and place in a protected environment until spring.

Divide established clumps (offsets) during spring and plant out with 1.5 m (5 ft) spacing.

Note:
In frost prone areas mulch the crown heavily after the foliage dies off.

Botanic information
Leaf: The large pinnate leaves are deeply divided into linear to lanceolate segments that are grey-green and covered in fine silvery hairs. The margins are tipped with yellowish spines and the basal leaves are up to 1m (3ft) long, forming a rosette.

Flower: The purple radiate flowers have basal bracts that are spined and the flower heads are arranged on a greyish pubescent stem above the foliage and appear from spring to summer.

Fruit: The seeds are viable but the plant may be reproduced vegetatively.