Big Blue Sea Holly (Eryngium)

Eryngium (Sea Holly) is a genus of Old World perennials with attractive thistle-like flower bracts surrounding the round flowers. Highly attractive to honeybees and butterflies.
Preferred growing conditions:

• Plant in a fast-draining, infertile soil with full sun. Avoid clay soils. Mulch with gravel or not at all.
• Water regularly the first growing season to establish the plant. Thereafter, infrequent but deep watering is all this plant needs.
• Deadheading is not needed as it will not extend the bloom season or bring the plants back into flower.
• Fertilize lightly in the fall with a half and half blend of Yum Yum Mix and good quality compost.

Special comments:

• Eryngium is a tap rooted plant and does not like to be transplanted once established.  Don't divide as tap rooted plants resent having their roots disturbed.
• Seed heads are ornamental and attract seed-eating songbirds.
• These are low care perennials that don't like rich soil or a lot of water; this makes the plants leggy and prone to flopping.