If you are looking for a low growing easy care Sea Holly then Eryngium variifolium is it.
Glossy evergreen deep green foliage (see picture right), is veined and attractive, the classic ‘metallic’ steel blue spiky flowers appear in masses and are held well above the foliage, and long flowering as well.
Reaching between .5m and . 6m in height, this is excellent evergreen plant for a warm position in the border. Summer flowering and drought tolerant on an easy care plant
How To grow Eryngium variifolium – Basic Care
Planting & Position
Sunlight: Choose a full sun location. A sunny, open position ensures strong flower and foliage development.
Soil: Use a very well-drained soil — sandy, gritty or free-draining loam is ideal. Poorer, dry soils are better tolerated than rich moisture-retentive ones.
Air circulation: Good airflow around the plant helps prevent fungal or rot issues, especially in humid or wet climates.
Watering
Water lightly and sparingly once established; this plant is drought tolerant and dislikes wet, soggy soil.
During establishment (first several months), water sufficiently to support root development — but avoid oversaturation.
Maintenance & Pruning
Dead-heading spent flowers is the main pruning needed. Cut back flower stems after blooming if you prefer tidy borders.
Otherwise, it remains a very low-maintenance plant. Good drainage and minimal disturbance are more important than frequent pruning.
Suitability & Versatility
A sunny position and a well drained soil are the main prerequisites for Eryngium variifolium.
This is a plant that will tolerate dryish conditions once established and also good in coastal plantings. Could be grown in a container if required. Good air circulation will prevent most problems.
Pruning Eryngium variifolium
Pruning Eryngium variifolium is generally restricted to cutting back spent flower heads, however we tend to leave them until they fall over, not sure if we like the look, or just get lazy sometimes.
Eryngium variifolium is available for sale from the following participating nurseries
52 Rodd St Canowindra NSW 2804
An online nursery specialising in drought and frost tolerant perennials and fragrant, edible and herbs.
www.perennialle.com.au
Little Hampton, Vic 345
"Mail order nursery specialising in cottage garden perennials, flowering shrubs, Trilliums, Hostas and Pacific Coast Iris. Flat rate express postage - Except WA & TAS"
www.botanicaltreasures.com
Not easy to find in Australia
If you live in Melbourne try…
Cloudehill Nursery – phone : 03 9751 1009
89 Olinda Monbulk Road Olinda, Victoria.
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