Drought-tolerant Perennials: If you’re gardening in a dry area, pair Eryngium with other drought-tolerant plants like Agastache, Perovskia (Russian Sage), or Penstemon.

The name of the genus Eryngium comes, Latinized, from the Greek term “ηρύγγιον” (eringhion) = cardoon, whilst the specific term alpinum= of the Alps, refers, in Latin, to the habitat where it lives. The epithet 'alpinum' means of mountains at altitudes usually above timberline. It is commonly called alpine sea holly - which makes me laugh - sea? alpine? really?. Blooming Season: Eryngium typically blooms in the summer and sometimes into fall, bringing its unusual and unique beauty to gardens and landscapes. The Eryngium alpinum is a 30-70 cm tall species, exceptionally 100 cm, of green glaucous colour, with erect posture. It is a scapose hermicryptophyte, that is a perennial plant bearing the buds at the level of the soil and develops an elongated floral axis. The snow, the leaves and the dry leaves of the plant, cover and protect the buds from the harsh winters.

Taking Care of Eryngium

The seed heads can be left-on overwinter for architectural interest. Cut the plants down to ground level in early spring. Pests and Diseases Sea Holly can be a striking addition to various garden designs due to its unique color, texture, and structural form. Here are some ideas on how to integrate it into your garden design: The involucre of the capitula is formed by 10-20 erect bracts, of amethyst blue colour, 6 cm long at most, bipinnatifid, with rigid and spinescent laciniae. Salvia: With their spires of flowers, salvias can echo the form of Eryngium but provide a softer texture. Look for varieties with purple or blue flowers for a cool-colored theme, or contrast with red or pink varieties.

Common names: Eringio delle Alpi, Regina delle Alpi, Calcatreppola alpina (Italian); Panicaut des Alpes, Chardon bleu (French); Alpine Eryngo, Queen of the Alps, Alpine Sea – Holly (English); Eringio alpino (Spanish); Alpen-Mannstreu (German).The species has become extremely rare, even under risk of extinction in some locations, due to its beauty and the consequent indiscriminate collection. Eryngium 'Blue Steel' produces cones of tiny blue flowers surrounded by a spiky collar. Height to 36in (90cm), spread 18in (45cm). Available from Thompson & Morgan, Van Meuwen. Roses: The spiky texture of Eryngium contrasts nicely with the soft petals of roses, and their blue or silver color can help to set off the color of the roses.