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Description
Eryngium Giganteum Silver Ghost, commonly known as Miss Willmott’s Ghost, is a striking perennial plant that belongs to the carrot family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The plant is characterized by its large, deeply cut, silvery-grey leaves and unique, spiky flower heads that start as a metallic silver-green color and gradually turn into a deep shade of smoky purple. Eryngium Giganteum Silver Ghost blooms in summer and is a favorite of pollinators, especially bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Eryngium |
Appearance
Eryngium Giganteum Silver Ghost has large, deeply cut, silvery-grey foliage that forms a basal rosette at the bottom of the plant. The leaves are spiny and can grow up to 18 inches long. The plant produces unique, spiky flower heads that are 3 to 4 inches in diameter and start as a metallic silver-green color. As the flowers mature, they gradually turn into a deep shade of smoky purple. The flower heads are surrounded by a collar of spiky bracts that are silvery-grey in color. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it a great addition to any garden or landscape.
Care Guide
Eryngium Giganteum Silver Ghost prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be watered deeply once a week, especially during periods of drought. Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer. Eryngium Giganteum Silver Ghost prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eryngium Giganteum Silver Ghost is relatively pest-resistant but can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. The plant can also be affected by root rot if it is grown in poorly-draining soil. To prevent pest infestations, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent root rot, make sure the plant is grown in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Eryngium Giganteum Silver Ghost is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in rocky, well-draining soils. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Eryngium Giganteum Silver Ghost is a popular plant among gardeners and is often grown in gardens and landscapes around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eryngium Giganteum Silver Ghost a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Eryngium Giganteum Silver Ghost is a perennial plant.
Q: Does Eryngium Giganteum Silver Ghost attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Eryngium Giganteum Silver Ghost is a favorite of bees and butterflies.
Q: What is the ideal hardiness zone for Eryngium Giganteum Silver Ghost?
A: Eryngium Giganteum Silver Ghost is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Q: How often should Eryngium Giganteum Silver Ghost be fertilized?
A: Eryngium Giganteum Silver Ghost should be fertilized once a month with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Eryngium planum
- Eryngium alpinum
- Eryngium yuccifolium
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/eryngium/eryngium-giganteum.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/15210/eryngium-giganteum/details
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/eryngium-giganteum-miss-willmotts-ghost
