Echinops sphaerocephalus 'Arctic Glow'

Globe thistles are herbaceous perennials that are easy to grow. They don't seem to be too picky about soil. Once established, they are quite drought-tolerant.

Arctic Glow is an interesting selection because it has white, spiky globes of flowers that are contrasted by reddish stems. The entire plant has a very spiky effect. You could balance this with softer perennials or lean into the sharpness with other striking plants like eryngiums, artemisias, cacti, and agaves.