variable-leaved sea holly
Eryngium variifolium
USDA zones5 to 9
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterHandles dry to moderate soil
Size12 to 18 inches tall9 to 12 inches wide
- Bloom season
- Summer
- Bloom color
- Grayish-blue
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Variable-leaved sea holly (Eryngium variifolium) is a perennial for borders, containers, and low maintenance gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 5, or down to -20°F (-29°C). This plant likes full sun and dry to average, sandy, loamy, or chalky soil. Grayish-blue flowers open from early to late summer and draw butterflies and bees. The evergreen leaves stay on the plant all year. It sits low on the menu for deer.
Pairs well with Woolly yarrow, Blue grama, and Greig's tulip.
Native range
Northern Africa.