Eryngium planum 'Blaue Kappe' (Blue Eryngo) — herbaceous perennial

Overview

Eryngium planum 'Blaue Kappe' is a herbaceous perennial in the genus Eryngium, part of the Apiaceae family. It typically grows around 0.5 metres tall. Eryngium planum 'Blaue Kappe' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens and cut flowers. It is native to Europe.

About

Eryngium planum 'Blaue Kappe' is an herbaceous perennial in the Apiaceae with branched silvery-blue stems carrying many small, conical blue flowerheads framed by spiky bracts. It typically reaches around 50 cm. Flowering runs from June to September, offering summer colour and architectural seedheads.

About the genus

Eryngium is a genus of flowering plants in the family Apiaceae. There are about 250 species. The genus has a cosmopolitan distribution, with centres of diversity in the western Mediterranean, South America and Mexico.

Wikipedia contributors, "Eryngium", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Eryngium

In the garden

Eryngium planum 'Blaue Kappe' belongs to the genus Eryngium within the Apiaceae and originates from temperate parts of Europe and Asia. It forms a compact, thistle-like perennial clump with branched stems that have a silvery-blue cast; the stems bear numerous small conical flowerheads each set in a ring of spiky bracts. The flowers are blue and appear through the summer months, specifically June to September. Position plants where the slender, branched stems and cone-shaped heads will be visible rather than hidden behind taller neighbours, since the floral structure is a key feature. Individual plants reach roughly 50 cm, so allow spacing that lets the branched habit develop without crowding. The blue conical heads and their bracts create a clear textural contrast with softer-leaved perennials and grasses, making the cultivar useful where defined summer structure is wanted. Treat the flowering period as the main display season and plan companions that flower earlier or later to extend garden interest. The spiky bracts remain unmistakable while in bloom and provide a recognisable summer silhouette throughout the plant's flowering months.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Eryngium

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Aspect: Sunny
Exposure: Full sun
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Eryngium planum 'Blaue Kappe' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: herbaceous perennial
Height: 0.5 metres
Suggested uses: Borders, Rock gardens, Cut flowers
Native to: Europe

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Eryngium planum 'Blaue Kappe'

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established; avoid waterlogging
Pruning: Remove spent flower heads to encourage tidiness; cut back in late winter or early spring
Propagation: Seed, division

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Eryngium planum 'Blaue Kappe'?

Prefers well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established; avoid waterlogging.

Where is the best place to plant Eryngium planum 'Blaue Kappe'?

Eryngium planum 'Blaue Kappe' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Eryngium planum 'Blaue Kappe' need?

Eryngium planum 'Blaue Kappe' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.