Eryngium planum aka Flat Sea Holly

Taxonomy

Eryngium planum, also known as the blue eryngo or flat sea holly, is a compact perennial plant with a round habit. Native to central and southeastern Europe and central Asia, it features spiny, highly divided silvery-green leaves. In summer, it produces numerous small thimble-shaped flowerheads surrounded by spiky pale silvery-blue bracts. These flowers, which can be left on the plant for decorative purposes or dried for flower arrangements, bloom from July to September and are loved by both gardeners and florists. With a height and width ranging from 7.8 to 35 inches (20-90 cm) and a bush-like form, Eryngium planum attracts multiple pollinators and adds beauty to stony or gravel areas in the garden. Its indigo flowers, initially pale cream in color, create a stunning visual display. Even in full sun and during the hottest days of summer, this herbaceous perennial thrives and adds a touch of elegance to any garden.

Common names

Flat Sea Holly, Blue Eryngo, Kok Bas

How to care for Flat Sea Holly

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Flat Sea Holly is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

Flat Sea Holly should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Flat Sea Holly loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Flat Sea Holly thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Kok Bas.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it is common for Flat Sea Holly plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Region of origin

Flat Sea Holly’s native range is E. Europe through Russia to central and southwestern Asia.


More info:
Wikipedia