About
Eryngium maritimum, the sea holly, is a distinctive native coastal perennial forming spreading clumps of rounded, deeply lobed, blue-grey, waxy, spiny-margined leaves. In midsummer, branching stems to 60 cm carry rounded, blue-green flowerheads surrounded by spiny, silver-blue bracts. An attractive and drought-tolerant plant for a sunny, sandy, well-drained position.
About the genus
Eryngium, the sea hollies, are biennials and perennials with spiny-margined, often architectural leaves and distinctive, dome-shaped flowerheads surrounded by spiny bracts, often in metallic shades of blue, silver or purple. Drought-tolerant and ornamental, they are grown in sunny, well-drained borders.
Plant details
Suggested usesBedding, containers, hanging baskets.
Care notes
CultivationPlant out after last frost in fertile, well-drained soil.
PruningDeadhead regularly to prolong flowering.
PropagationGrow from seed sown in spring.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.