Eryngium alpinum
This is the largest flowering sea holly and definitely the most dramatic. Gun metal blue stems and equally blue thistle-like flowers with a conical flowerhead and intricate, feathery bracts. Graham Stuart Thomas rates this species “exceptional” in beauty and as a garden plant. No need to disagree! This peculiar genus from the carrot family is found around the world but with its centre of diversity in South America. There are also a number of European species.
Common Name: Alpine Sea Holly
Family: Apiaceae (The Carrot/Parsley Family)
Zone Hardiness: 3-9
Light: Full Sun
Height: 2-4'
Width: 12-24"
Primary Bloom Colour: Blue
Secondary Bloom Colour:
Class: Deciduous
Type: Perennial
Bloom Time: Summer
Soil Moisture: Average, Dry, Drought Tolerant
Stem Colour: Blue
Fragrance: No
Berries:
Benefits:
Deer Resistant: Unknown
BC Native: No
Native Habitat: Some sea hollies are native to rocky and coastal areas, but the majority are grassland plants.
Award: AGM
Geographical Origin:
