Steel-blue flowers offer an amazing textural contrast. Distinctive
4" flower heads have cone-shaped centers, encircled by steelyblue
bracts. Grows 24-30" tall. Striking in borders and arrangements.
#1 field-grown plants. Eryngium alpinum
Zones: 4-8 - Full sun - Deer tend to avoid
Product Details
Botanical Name: Eryngium alpinum
Form: Herbaceous perennial
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Height/Habit: 24" - 30", upright
Spread: 18" - 24"
Spacing: 18" - 22"
Hardiness Zone: 4 - 8 (-30 degrees F)
Foliage Type: Lower leaves heart-shaped, up to 6" long with margins covered in spiny teeth. Stem leaves palmately lobed, tinged with blue.
Flower Form: The 1 1/2" pineapple-like heads are subtended by several ruffs of delicate, pinnetely cut, steel blue bracts.
Flower Color: Intense steel blue
Flowering Date: Mid to late summer
Planting Requirements: Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the roots without bending them. Plant firmly and water in thoroughly. If potted, plant same depth as in pot.
Soil Requirements: Well drained, open soil
Growth Rate: Moderate once established, which takes approximately 4 - 6 weeks
Unique Characteristics: All parts of this plant are highly ornamental. The flowers are striking with their long pointed bracts that radiate out beneath the flower heads. The icy blue and gray coloring only adds to this dramatic effect. This is complimented by holly-like foliage that also has a blue hue and gray markings. The stems are also blue. All in all a beautiful, unique and dramatic addition to the garden. Given full sun and a well drained soil Eryngiums will flourish for years. They also make dazzling cut flowers.. Many consider this species the most beautiful of the Sea Hollies, it's certainly the bluest.
Pruning: None, except to cut back spent flower stems
Time of Pruning: After flowering
Additional Information: This has an extended bloom time as the side branches produce abundant, albeit smaller flowers. These, along with the terminal flower forms an open, broad conical flowering head.
i have had this beautiful plant now for 5 years, it shows off such wonderful and vibrant color. i always have people asking me just what this plant is ! it also makes for a excellent cut flower....the color in it is just beautiful....i love it !
