Eryngium planum 'Blue Cap' (Sea Holly)

Eryngium planum 'Blue Cap', also known as 'Blue Cap' or 'Blaukappe' sea holly, is a unique cultivar of an introduced perennial known for its showy, blue tinted, spiny flowers, similar to thistles or teasels in appearance. Originally native to Eurasia, sea holly grows well in a variety of soil types, and is considered hardy and low maintenance perennial, perfect for a variety of landscape types. Highly sought after for its flowers' appearance and texture, 'Blue Cap' sea holly is an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements, and produces a showy, otherworldly, silvery-blue bloom for several months through the summer and into the early fall.

As a semi-dwarf cultivar, Eryngium planum 'Blue Cap' starts in the early spring as a low-growing rosette of leaves before maturing to 24-30" tall and wide, and a single plant can spread and self-seed to form large clumps over time. 'Blue Cap' sea holly excels in full sun, and thrives on neglect, performing happily in high heat and arid conditions and preferring dry soils that are well draining. 'Blue Cap' flowers are attractive to pollinators and butterflies, and their unique texture makes them resistant to deer and rabbit damage too. For an excellent splash of color with a lot of multi-season appeal, 'Blue Cap' sea holly is beautiful choice for small spaces, containers, and a variety of flower bed types.