Eryngium planum, or Sea Holly, is a fantastic Old World perennial that blooms in summer with tall stems of spiny blue flowers. It is a profuse bloomer and is invaluable for attracting bees and butterflies. It is very drought tolerant and thrives in less than ideal garden conditions. 

Plant in a fast-draining, infertile soil with full sun and avoid clay soils. Eryngium will grow well in a pot with a potting mix of equal parts sand or grit, compost, and perlite, or in clay ammended with grit. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish the plant. Thereafter, infrequent watering is needed- overwatering results in fewer blooms and a floppy plant. Do not transplant- Eryngium have a deep tap root and do not like to be disturbed.

Water Use: Light to Medium

Light Requirement: Sun

Soil Moisture: Damp to dry

Soil type: Sand, loam (can be potted)

Soil pH: 6-8

Drought Tolerance: High

Perennial

Special attributes: Attracts beneficial insects including butterflies, bumble bee plant, and deer resistant.