Eryngium maritimum (Sea Holly)

Highly ornamental, Eryngium maritimum (Sea Holly) is a semi-evergreen, clump-forming perennial with rosettes of waxy, spiny, blue-gray leaves adorned with white veins. In summer, the stiff stems boast thistle-like, blue flower heads adorned with collars of spiky bracts.

Highly ornamental, Eryngium maritimum (Sea Holly) is a semi-evergreen, clump-forming perennial with rosettes of waxy, spiny, blue-gray leaves adorned with white veins. In summer, the stiff stems boast thistle-like, blue flower heads adorned with collars of spiky bracts. Native to the sandy beaches of Europe, Sea Holly appreciates sandy and sunny conditions. Perfect for coastal areas and rock gardens.

  • Grows in clumps of stiffly erect, branched stems up to 24-36 in. tall and wide (60-90 cm)
  • Performs best in full sun in sand dunes or shingle. Drought tolerant.
  • Excellent choice for gravel gardens and coastal gardens. May be planted as a single specimen or in groupings. Perfect for cut or dried flower arrangements too!
  • Propagate by seed in fall
  • Native to Europe

Requirements

Hardiness 5
– 10

Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Eryngium – Sea Hollies
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Early,Mid,Late)
Height 2'
– 3'
(60cm
– 90cm)
Spread 2'
– 3'
(60cm
– 90cm)
Spacing 36″ (90cm)
Water Needs Low
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Sand
Soil pH Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Showy, Semi-Evergreen
Native Plants United Kingdom
Tolerance Deer, Drought, Dry Soil, Salt
Attracts Bees, Birds, Butterflies
Garden Styles Coastal Garden, Gravel and Rock Garden