Striking Eryngium Plants: Unique Flowers for Every Garden

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eryngium-p.-jade-frost-pp17370-flat.jpg Eryngium (ee-rin-jee-um) Sea Holly, Apiaceae Family. Eryngiums are handsome and imposing in the border or the rock garden. They have globe-shaped flower heads, usually blue. Eryngium are decorative either fresh or dried, and seed pods can be used for winter arrangements. Developed for the cut flower industry, Eryngium makes an excellent addition to the home garden.

The plants need full sun and sandy garden soil, well-drained with plenty of moisture. Tolerant of poor soils, if Eryngium is placed in very rich soil or less than full sun, tall plants may sprawl. This is a taprooted plant that transplants poorly and is best left undisturbed once established.

Eryngium

Eryngium p. 'Blue Glitter' (30)ct Flat

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Eryngium

Eryngium p. 'Blue Glitter' (30)ct Flat

Eryngium p. 'Blue Glitter' (30)ct FlatBarrenwort, Longspur Epimedium, ‘Lilac Fairy’. Looking for a perennial that will grow in that hot, sun-baked spot in your landscape? Sea Holly is just the plant! It thrives in that type of climate, and...

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Now: $169.16
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What are the characteristics of Eryngium?

Eryngium, commonly known as sea holly, is a genus of flowering plants in the Apiaceae family, the same family as carrots and parsley. There are about 250 species of Eryngium found around the world, with the center of diversity in South America.

Here are some of the characteristics of Eryngium:

Spiny: Eryngium plants are known for their hairless and usually spiny leaves. The spiny nature of these plants is reflected in their genus name, which comes from an ancient Greek word referring to something prickly.
Thistle-like flowers: Eryngium's most striking feature is its flowers. These are not individual blooms, but rather compact clusters of tiny flowers surrounded by spiky bracts. The bracts give the flowers a somewhat spiny and thistle-like appearance, hence the common name "sea holly." The flower colors can be blue, white, or silver.
Basal rosettes: Eryngium plants typically have basal rosettes, which means that their leaves grow in a circle at the base of the stem.
Height: Eryngium stems can grow anywhere from 2 to 6 feet tall.
Blooming season: These plants bloom in the summer, typically from June to September.
Adaptable: Eryngium is a tough and adaptable plant. It can thrive in almost any kind of soil, even those that may be nutrient deficient. It is also tolerant of a wide range of light conditions.

Eryngium is a valuable plant for gardeners because of its unique aesthetics and its ability to attract pollinators. The spiky texture, distinctive thistle-like flowers, and sometimes blue or silvery tones of Eryngium can act as a focal point in a garden and draw the eye. Additionally, the nectar-rich flowers are popular with a variety of beneficial insects, including bees and butterflies. This can help support local ecosystems and contribute to a biodiverse garden.

How Do I Plant Eryngium?

There are two main ways to plant Eryngium: by seed or by transplanting established plants (often sold as bare-root). Here is a breakdown for each method:

Planting Eryngium from Seed:

Timing: Ideally, sow seeds in late summer or fall. They will germinate in spring after a cold period, but likely will not flower in the first year.
Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Eryngium tolerates poor soil, but wet conditions can cause root rot.
Planting: Prepare a garden bed by amending it with sand or gravel for improved drainage if needed. Sow seeds on the soil surface and lightly cover them with a thin layer of planting mix. Seeds need sunlight to germinate. Water gently to keep the soil moist but not soggy.

Planting Bare-Root Eryngium:

Timing: You can plant bare-root Eryngium in spring or fall, as long as the ground is not frozen.
Location: Same as seed planting - sunny location with well-draining soil.
Planting: Soak the bare roots in water for a few hours before planting to rehydrate them. Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the roots comfortably. Place the plant so the crown (where the roots meet the stem) sits slightly below the soil surface, about 1-2 inches deep. Refill the hole with soil and gently firm it around the plant to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil and hydrate the roots.

General Tips for Both Methods:

Maintain consistent moisture, especially during the first growing season, but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Eryngium is a low-maintenance plant and does not require heavy feeding.
Once established, Eryngium is quite drought tolerant.
You can deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming or leave them on for winter interest.

What Are varieties Of Eryngium?

There are around 250 species of Eryngium, but here are some of the most popular varieties grown in gardens:

Sea Holly (Eryngium planum): This is the most common type of Eryngium grown in gardens. It has steel-blue flower heads and spiky, blue-green leaves. It can grow up to three feet tall and blooms in the summer.
Alpine Sea Holly (Eryngium alpinum): This variety has metallic-blue flower heads with spiky bracts that are even more prominent than those of Eryngium planum. It grows up to two feet tall and blooms in the summer.
Miss Willmott's Ghost (Eryngium giganteum): This variety has stunning white flower heads that resemble large, airy bubbles. It can grow up to five feet tall and blooms in the late summer and fall.
Mediterranean Sea Holly (Eryngium bourgatii): This variety has steel-blue flower heads and spiny, gray-green leaves. It is a smaller species, only growing up to eighteen inches tall, and blooms in the summer.
Agave-leaved Sea Holly (Eryngium agavifolium): This variety has unusual, long and narrow leaves that resemble those of an agave plant. It has steel-blue flower heads and can grow up to four feet tall. It blooms in the late summer and fall.

How Do I Care For Eryngium In My Garden?

Eryngium, also known as sea holly, is a low-maintenance perennial that thrives with minimal care once established. Here is a breakdown of how to keep your Eryngium happy in your garden:

Sunlight and Soil:

Provide your Eryngium with a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Well-draining soil is crucial. Eryngium tolerates poor to moderately fertile soil, but it cannot tolerate soggy conditions which can lead to root rot. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with sand or gravel to improve drainage.

Watering and Feeding:

Water regularly, especially during the first growing season, but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Eryngium is drought tolerant once established, so avoid overwatering.
Feeding is not necessary for established Eryngium plants. They are not heavy feeders and may even get leggy with too much fertilizer.

Deadheading and Maintenance:

Deadheading spent flowers can encourage continued blooming throughout the summer. However, you can also leave the flower heads on the plants for winter interest. The dried flower stalks add a unique texture to the garden, especially when dusted with snow.
Every few years, you can cut back the old foliage to the ground in early spring. This will encourage new growth and prevent a build-up of dead leaves.

Other Care Tips:

Eryngium is a tap-rooted plant and generally does not transplant well. It is best to choose the planting location carefully and avoid disturbing the plant once established.
Eryngium is generally pest and disease resistant. However, in very wet conditions, they may be susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew. If you notice signs of disease, you can try using a fungicide specifically labeled for use on perennials.
Eryngium is a favorite among butterflies and bees due to its nectar-rich flowers.

By following these simple care tips, you can enjoy the beauty and low-maintenance nature of Eryngium in your garden for many years to come.

Do Eryngium attract pollinators?

Yes, Eryngium, also known as sea holly, is absolutely known for attracting pollinators! Here's why they are so pollinator-friendly:

Nectar-rich flowers: Eryngium boasts clusters of tiny flowers that are packed with nectar, a delicious food source for pollinators like butterflies and bees.
Blooming season: These plants bloom throughout the summer months, from June to September in many regions. This extended bloom period provides a reliable source of sustenance for pollinators during a crucial time.
Visually appealing: The striking blue, white, or silver colors of the flower heads and the spiky bracts can be quite attractive to pollinators.

By attracting pollinators to your garden, Eryngium can help support a healthy ecosystem and even improve the fruit set of nearby plants that rely on pollinators.

Are There Any Common Pests Or Diseases That Affect Eryngium?

Eryngium is generally considered a pest and disease resistant plant, but there are a few potential issues to watch out for:

Pests:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck sap from the leaves and stems of Eryngium. A mild infestation may not cause significant harm, but large numbers of aphids can weaken the plant. You can control them with insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays.
- Slugs and Snails: These slimy mollusks can munch on the leaves of Eryngium. Handpicking and removing them is the most organic solution. You can also create a barrier using crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth around your plants to deter them.
Diseases:
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can occur in humid conditions or areas with poor air circulation. It appears as white powdery spots on the leaves. You can try to control it with fungicides containing sulfur or neem oil, but ensuring good air circulation around your plants is the best preventative measure.
- Root Rot: This fungal disease is caused by overwatering, especially in poorly draining soil. It can cause the leaves to wilt and turn yellow, and the plant may eventually die. The best way to prevent root rot is to ensure your Eryngium is planted in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.

If you notice any signs of pests or diseases on your Eryngium, it's important to address them promptly to prevent them from spreading and harming the plant. Early intervention is key! Remember, healthy Eryngium with good air circulation and proper watering are less susceptible to these issues.

Can I Use Eryngium in Floral Arrangements?

Absolutely, Eryngium, also known as sea holly, is a popular choice for floral arrangements due to its unique characteristics and versatility. Here's why Eryngium is a great addition to your floral creations:

Visual Interest: Eryngium boasts spiky bracts and thistle-like flower heads that come in shades of blue, white, or silver. These striking features can add a touch of drama, texture, and sculptural interest to your arrangements.
Versatility: Eryngium can be used in a variety of arrangements, from rustic and wildflower bouquets to more modern and elegant designs. They can also be dried and used in everlasting arrangements.
Long Vase Life: Eryngium has a good vase life, both fresh and dried, which means your arrangements can look beautiful for extended periods.

Here are some additional things to consider when using Eryngium in floral arrangements:

Types of Eryngium: There are many varieties of Eryngium available, each with slightly different characteristics. Some popular choices for bouquets include Eryngium planum (Sea Holly) with its smaller steel-blue flower heads, or Eryngium alpinum (Alpine Sea Holly) with its larger, prominent bracts.
Pairing Eryngium with other flowers: Eryngium pairs well with a variety of flowers and foliage. Some popular choices include roses, lilies, snapdragons, eucalyptus, and other textural elements. You can also create beautiful monochromatic arrangements using different shades of blue or white Eryngium varieties.
Fresh or Dried: Eryngium can be used fresh or dried in arrangements. Fresh Eryngium will add a vibrant pop of color, while dried Eryngium adds a more rustic and natural look.

With its unique beauty and versatility, Eryngium can be a valuable addition to your floral design toolkit. So next time you're creating an arrangement, consider incorporating some sea holly to add a touch of drama and intrigue!

Is Eryngium Invasive?

No, Eryngium is generally not considered an invasive plant. Here's why:

Limited spread: While Eryngium can self-seed by dropping seeds around the parent plant, it typically doesn't spread aggressively. The seedlings tend to stay relatively close to the original plant and are unlikely to overwhelm your garden or surrounding areas.
Slow growth: Eryngium is not a fast-growing plant. This natural characteristic helps prevent it from quickly taking over a space.
Contained by taproots: Eryngium has a taproot, a long, central root that goes deep into the soil. This type of root system makes it difficult for the plant to spread widely through underground runners or suckers, which are common traits of invasive plants.

However, it's always a good idea to be aware of the potential for any plant to spread in unexpected ways, especially if you're concerned about a particular ecosystem. If you're worried about Eryngium spreading in your garden, you can simply deadhead the flowers before they go to seed. This will prevent them from self-seeding and multiplying.

When Is The Best Time To propagate Eryngium?

There are two main ways to propagate Eryngium: by seed and by division, and the best timing for each method differs:

Propagation by Seed:
- The ideal time to sow Eryngium seeds is in late summer or fall, specifically between late August and October.
- Sowing seeds in the fall allows them to experience a cold period which can improve germination rates.
- However, seeds sown in fall likely won't flower until the following year.
Propagation by Division:
- Dividing established Eryngium plants is best done in early spring or fall when the plant is dormant and the soil is cool and moist.
- Avoid dividing Eryngium in the summer heat as this can stress the plant.

What are the benefits of planting Eryngium?

Eryngium, also known as sea holly, offers a variety of benefits for gardeners, both aesthetic and ecological. Here is a breakdown of the key advantages of planting Eryngium:

Unique Beauty: Eryngium boasts striking thistle-like flower heads in shades of blue, white, or silver, along with spiky bracts and interesting foliage. This unique combination adds textural interest and sculptural elements to your garden, creating a focal point and enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Low Maintenance: Eryngium is a low-maintenance perennial that thrives with minimal care once established. They are tolerant of poor to moderately fertile soil and are drought tolerant after the initial growing period. This makes them a perfect choice for busy gardeners or those looking for plants that require minimal fuss.
Pollinator Friendly: Eryngium's nectar-rich flowers and extended bloom period (June to September) make them a haven for pollinators like butterflies and bees. By attracting these beneficial insects, Eryngium helps support a healthy ecosystem and can even improve fruit set on nearby plants that rely on pollinators.
Deer and Rabbit Resistant: The spiny foliage and tough texture of Eryngium make them less appealing to deer and rabbits. This can be a significant advantage if you have problems with these herbivores damaging your other garden plants.
Cut Flower Potential: Eryngium's long-lasting flowers make them a great addition to cut flower arrangements. The unique form and texture of the blooms can add a touch of drama and intrigue to bouquets, both fresh and dried.
Adaptable: Eryngium is a versatile plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. They tolerate full sun and well-drained soil but can also adapt to some light shade. This adaptability makes them suitable for a wider range of garden locations.

Overall, Eryngium offers a combination of attractive aesthetics, low maintenance requirements, and ecological benefits, making them a valuable addition to many gardens.

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Eryngium

Eryngium p. 'Blue Glitter' (30)ct Flat

Eryngium

Eryngium p. 'Blue Glitter' (30)ct Flat