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Description
Eryngium Giganteum, commonly known as Miss Wilmott’s Ghost, is a striking and unique perennial plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is prized for its ornamental value. The plant can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for garden borders, rock gardens, and containers. Eryngium Giganteum produces an abundance of spiky, silver-blue flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Eryngium |
Appearance
Eryngium Giganteum is a visually appealing plant that adds texture and interest to any garden. It has a spiky, architectural form with deeply lobed, prickly leaves that are silver-green in color. The plant produces numerous stems that each bear a single, large, globe-shaped flower head. The flowers are an unusual silver-blue color and are surrounded by a spiky collar of silvery bracts, giving the plant a ghostly appearance. The flower heads can be up to 4 inches in diameter and are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Eryngium Giganteum is a relatively low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Here are some care tips to help your Eryngium Giganteum thrive:
- Water: Water regularly, but do not overwater. The plant prefers a slightly dry soil, so avoid keeping the soil too wet.
- Fertilization: Eryngium Giganteum does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers a well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Add organic matter to the soil to improve drainage and fertility.
- Sunlight: Eryngium Giganteum needs full sun to thrive. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Eryngium Giganteum is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eryngium Giganteum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by the following:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of Eryngium Giganteum. Use organic slug bait or handpick them to protect your plants.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can lead to root rot. Ensure the soil is well-drained, and do not overwater.
Habitat
Eryngium Giganteum is native to the Mediterranean region, where it grows in dry, rocky habitats. In cultivation, the plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eryngium Giganteum a good cut flower?
A: Yes, Eryngium Giganteum makes an excellent cut flower. The flowers are long-lasting and retain their color and shape well.
Q: How often should I water Eryngium Giganteum?
A: Water Eryngium Giganteum regularly but avoid overwatering. The plant prefers a slightly dry soil, so allow the soil to dry between watering.
Q: Can Eryngium Giganteum grow in partial shade?
A: Eryngium Giganteum prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. However, the plant may produce fewer flowers and grow less vigorously in partial shade.
Q: How tall does Eryngium Giganteum grow?
A: Eryngium Giganteum can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
Related Plants
- Eryngium Planum (Sea Holly)
- Eryngium Alpinum (Alpine Sea Holly)
- Eryngium Bourgatii (Mediterranean Sea Holly)
References
- “Eryngium giganteum (Miss Willmott’s Ghost).” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b273.
- “Eryngium giganteum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16726/Eryngium-giganteum/Details.
- “Eryngium giganteum.” Plant Delights Nursery, Inc., www.plantdelights.com/products/eryngium-giganteum.
