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Description
Eryngium Spinalba, commonly known as Sea Holly, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. Native to the Mediterranean region, it is known for its striking blue-grey foliage and spiky, ball-like flower heads. The plant can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide, and it blooms from July to September. The flowers attract bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Eryngium |
Appearance
Eryngium Spinalba has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other plants. Its leaves are a silver-blue color and are shaped like spiky stars. The plant produces ball-shaped flower heads that are made up of many tiny flowers. The flowers are usually blue or white and are surrounded by sharp bracts that protect them from being eaten by insects. The stems of the plant are also spiky and can be quite rigid.
Care Guide
Eryngium Spinalba is a hardy plant that can be grown in various hardiness zones. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil, so make sure not to overwater it. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering in the winter months.- Fertilization: Eryngium Spinalba does not require much fertilization. You can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to help it grow its best.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can amend the soil with compost or peat moss to improve its quality.- Sunlight: Eryngium Spinalba prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant can be grown in hardiness zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eryngium Spinalba is relatively disease and pest resistant. However, it can sometimes be affected by powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. You can prevent powdery mildew by making sure the plant is not overcrowded and by providing good air circulation. If the disease does occur, you can treat it with a fungicide.
Habitat
Eryngium Spinalba is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in coastal areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun, which makes it well-suited to seaside gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Eryngium Spinalba be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its roots and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I prune Eryngium Spinalba?
A: The plant does not require much pruning. You can remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems as needed.
Q: Does Eryngium Spinalba attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Eryngium Spinalba survive in cold climates?
A: The plant can tolerate some cold temperatures but is best suited to hardiness zones 6-9.
Related Plants
– Eryngium Alpinum- Eryngium Aquaticum- Eryngium Bourgatii- Eryngium Giganteum- Eryngium Planum
References
– “Eryngium Spinalba.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 23, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277930&isprofile=0&basic=Eryngium%20spinalba.- “Eryngium Spinalba.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed June 23, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/6746/Eryngium-spinalba/Details.
